Basket.

Well, for what it's worth, we're at yet another New Year's Eve. Another year turns, entering its last 22 hours. Another 365 days less before we eventually cncounter the Great Leveller.

I didn't mean to be morbid. It's just in my nature.

The year wasn't kind to me, anyway. After a torrid 2005, I was counting on its successor to give me better treatment, but it roughed me up for my pains. By now an integral part of the Singapore Armed Forces' vast mean green bureaucracy, I lived through five largely peaceful months before finding they had flattered to deceive. Piled with extra responsibility for no extra renumeration, I then endured unreasonable deadlines, a crushing workload, people being stupid, people being stupid on purpose, people being assholes, superiors being assholes, mysterious black moods, perfectly logical black moods and all the myriad other frustrations of being an office drone and being in green.

Eventually I got myself together and did well enough what I was tasked with. It all ended at last, and that part I believe I have well-documented. At least the year has had a peaceful ending.

To sum it all up, like NS in general, 2006 has been rather dire, but it's had its moments. This past year memories have been created that will forever remain and be cherished, I have met new people and made new friends, and I have restored and renewed older bonds. For every bunch of idiots/unreasonable bastards/stick-up-ass fuckheads I have encountered, there has been at least one person willing to listen, willing to empathise and willing to console. I think I can call myself fortunate enough to have such a ratio - and to have behind me such a memorable week of gatherings.

In accordance with tradition, I will end my year-end post by thanking every single person who has in some way made an impact or helped me out somewhere in the course of the year just past. There are more of you than you think - and I hope some of you come out from behind that mask of anonymity and tag me. Also, for all my friends, all my readers, I hope 2007 is kind to you. May fate be less vicious in this year to come, and may all see their deepest hopes and wishes come to fruition.

To better days ahead, everyone.