The Year of Karim

I take New Year resolutions very seriously.

2012 was all about discovering my world and trying new things.
Since all my friends felt like leaving Lebanon at the same exact moment this summer, I was left alone in Beirut. This is how I discovered the city, by walking aimlessly in the streets with my laptop and a book. I got lost quite often but it was worth it. The camping and the hiking also helped since I got to discover the hidden beauty of the lost and abandoned wonders of Lebanon.
The year was also full of first times, things I never imagined would have happened. And I don't regret a thing.

And here comes 2013, the year during which I graduate from high-school. It is already meant to be amazing so I thought of the perfect resolution: Build unforgettable memories.
So when my friend got me an awesome Polaroid, I immediately started taking pictures of everything we do, whenever we go out. The plan is to fill a whole wall with these.

Also, luck seems to be on my side.
Yesterday, we had the traditional New Year lunch at our place with the whole family (and by that I mean no less than 50 people). So, like every year, mom hides 3 coins in her famous and delicious kebbeh arnabiyyeh and look what I found in my plate...

This means that 2013 is going to be as awesome as expected!

New Year Resolutions.

This is the time of the year when the world falls into a collective depression. Reality hits us.
We all remember our last New Year resolution and how we failed to accomplish them.
But we also look up to this coming year thinking that maybe it will bring the strength and courage to challenge ourselves again.

So, think my friend, think. What can 2012 be all about?
I've been pretty found of my resolutions so far. 2009 was all about never using violence again, 2010 was the year I convinced myself to come out and 2011 was all about being more classy. And I did.
I came out in 2010 and burned my wardrobe and built it again from its ashed in 2011 and all that while leading a nonviolent life. (Yes, Ghandi is very proud.) 

And now 2012 shall be the year of success and optimism.

Optimism, you say?

Parents often teach us to be realistic, but that often turns into pessimism.

"Expect the worse if you don't want to be disappointed."
That philosophy is so wrong.
This year, I am expecting the best, and I will do everything I can to get it.

Now success in our modern times is always associated with academic success, and that is also what I mainly mean: Building a good resume to go study abroad.
I already got a great SAT score which I am very proud of.
My mom, who was convinced that no man is mature enough to leave his parents at 18, told me that I should apply wherever I want to. :')
I know 2012 hasn't started yet but I consider this one of the first success of this new year. Yay me!

So what are you people up to this year? Share the joy!