The lessons of 2013 were hard and inspiring and surprising ones.
We learned that after winning a historic election, an American President can crash and burn.
We learned that decisive pronouncements from this same President became a muddle when push comes to shove on Syria and Iran.
We learned that America's allies can be as confused as its people.
We learned that in 2013, the botched launch of a website can begin to undo a presidency.
We learned that when the nation's leader repeatedly makes a promise — when that promise is the centerpiece of selling life-changing reforms to the nation — it had damn well better be true.
We learned that being courageously right was not enough from this President. After an unspeakable tragedy, and despite overwhelming public pressure, the people's representatives in Washington would not lift a finger to cross the absolutist gun lobby.
We learned that a far-right band would shut down the government in a mass suicide pact.
We learned that the historic movement to extend equal marriage rights to same-sex partners is gathering momentum, and that momentum is likely irreversible.
We learned that the federal government has built a secret, near-unimaginable network of surveillance powers to combat global terrorism, and we learned that the balance between freedom and security is going to be harder than ever to strike.
We learned that the greatest city in the world can recover, if slowly, from a once-in-a-lifetime (pray) storm.
We learned that an overdue method of teaching the skills students need to succeed will have growing pains in New York City's classrooms.
We learned that a mayor who reshaped the city for 12 years will be missed while his imprint endures.
We learned that seemingly miraculous crime reduction can grow even more miraculous.
We learned that, based on flimsy evidence and irresponsible extrapolations, a judge can crusade against the NYPD. But we also learned that impartial judges would discredit her manipulations.
We learned that being perceived as an ally to a three-term mayor is one of the worst ways to get yourself elected to the job.
We learned that voters were ready to trade a numbers-and-results guy for an untested candidate who promises profound change that may well be beyond his grasp.
But we learned to appreciate Bill de Blasio's talents and to hope that he succeeds.
We learned that in Albany, where a governor commands the stage and drives change, corruption is a constant.
We learned that two immature, sex-crazed fools thought they could lead New York.
We learned that a young Pakistani girl could become a global moral force - and that the Nobel Peace Prize committee is composed of asses.
We learned that a Pope can retire.
We learned that a Pope can transform the image and direction of the Catholic Church, reconnecting millions to their faith and inspiring those of other creeds and no creed at all.
We learned that the world can unite to celebrate the life of a giant, a man who was only strengthened by 27 years in prison, a force for freedom and dignity.
We learned that, for all the frustration and pain and fear and death, the world remains a brilliant, dazzling place. The future holds far more pleasure, far more potential, far more promise than the past.
Onward!
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