2017 has felt like an uninvited guest—much like that awkward holiday gathering with your racist relatives—who just won’t leave. As we bid adieu to this chaotic year, let’s take a reflective stroll through a landscape riddled with disasters, disappointments, and downright absurdities. It’s time to wave goodbye to the calamity that was 2017.
The Presidential Nightmare
With the inauguration of dry heave Donald Trump occurring less than three weeks into the year, it’s no surprise that 2017 turned into a relentless disaster. This individual, who shuffles around the White House in his worn-out bathrobe, spewing nonsensical tweets filled with racist and sexist remarks, has redefined the standards for “presidential behavior.” We’ve come to expect parades every time he manages to read from a teleprompter, showcasing just how low the bar has dropped.
Constant Anxiety
Has your daily social media scroll transformed into a frantic news check, desperately trying to catch up on the latest while battling insomnia? You’re not alone. Everyone seems to be living in a state of perpetual fear. Forget about engaging cliffhangers; we’re all on edge, wondering if the next alert will signal the beginning of a nuclear standoff between two immature leaders. Will it be nuclear war or the collapse of our healthcare system? If 2017 has taught us anything, it’s that uncertainty reigns supreme.
Men are Trash
While some powerful men have fallen from grace this year, the #MeToo movement has unearthed painful truths for countless women. It’s essential that these conversations happen, but the emotional toll is heavy. Discovering that those we once admired can commit such heinous acts is a bitter pill to swallow.
Calling Congress
With the constant need to contact our representatives, phone companies must be thriving as we switch to unlimited plans. I’ve spent countless hours leaving passionate messages about tax reform and other pressing issues. My grandma might wonder why I don’t call more often, but honestly, I’m busy engaging with my local Congress members, often to the point where I know their secretaries’ kids’ names. When I hear rumors about another ridiculous proposal from Betsy DeVos or new gun legislation, I brace myself for another round of activism.
The Rise of Extremism
Look out! There’s a group of unabashed Nazis strutting around proudly and spreading their hateful rhetoric. This year, we’ve seen the resurrection of some of the darkest elements of our society. They’re marching, propagating their vile messages on social media, and engaging in violence. The job for 2018 is clear: we must make these extremists fear again.
Gun Violence Epidemic
With mass shootings occurring at an alarming rate—26 lives lost in a Texas church and 59 at a Las Vegas festival—our nation is grappling with a staggering number of tragic events. Discussions on common-sense gun control often meet fierce resistance, leaving us to wonder when change will come.
Natural Disasters
From the wildfires ravaging California to catastrophic hurricanes in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico, 2017 has been marked by devastating natural disasters. Many people continue to struggle without basic necessities like clean water and electricity. The aftermath of these tragedies will take years of recovery.
The State of Affairs
Despite the chaos, it often feels as though no one in power is held accountable. The ongoing investigations led by Robert Mueller may lead to significant consequences, but it often seems like nothing truly matters. The President can make statements that would have derailed any previous leader yet remains unscathed. As we close the door on 2017, we’re eager to see what 2018 will bring, hoping for change and progress.
Summary
As we prepare to welcome a new year, we can only hope that 2018 offers a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos. From the rise of women’s voices to the potential for accountability in leadership, there are signs of change on the horizon. Let’s close the chapter on 2017, perhaps even shredding it, burning the remnants, and burying them deep in toxic waste dumps.
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