So, it’s Christmas again. Honestly, doesn’t it feel like the year just started? The lights are up, the air is cold, and everywhere you look, people are rushing around trying to get everything done. But sometimes, I wonder if we’re missing the point. Christmas, for me at least, isn’t about all the flashy stuff. It’s more about, you know, the little things—the people, the moments, and yeah, maybe even the chaos.

But, um, let’s not forget, this time of year isn’t just about Christmas either. I mean, it’s also about wrapping up everything that happened this year. 2024. What a year, right? For some, it was great. For others, maybe not so much. Personally, I feel like it was kind of... mixed? Like, I had some wins, but also a lot of “what even was that?” kind of moments.

Oh, and for the programmers out there, you probably already know about the Goodbye 2024 contest. It’s such a cool tradition. Like, you get to solve some wild problems and just kind of test yourself before the year ends. I mean, sure, not everyone’s out there gunning for the top spot, but even just participating is kind of exciting. It’s like one last challenge before you close the book on the year.

Anyway, where was I? Right—reflection. That’s the word everyone throws around at this time of year, isn’t it? Reflecting on the highs and lows, on what you learned, or maybe what you didn’t. Honestly, sometimes I don’t even know how to “reflect” properly. Like, do I just sit there and think about everything? Or do I write it down? I don’t know. But what I do know is that this year taught me a lot, even if I didn’t always enjoy the lessons.

And then there’s next year—2025. A blank page, as they say. Although, let’s be real, it’s not entirely blank. We’re all carrying some stuff over from this year, right? Goals we didn’t hit, things we didn’t finish... and that’s okay. It’s not like January 1st is some magical reset button (wouldn’t that be nice, though?).

So yeah, as we all celebrate the holidays—whether you’re surrounded by family, hanging out with friends, or maybe just chilling alone—just, I don’t know, take a moment. Think about what this year has meant to you. Or don’t. Honestly, just do whatever feels right for you.

And that’s pretty much it. Here’s to closing the door on 2024 (finally, in some cases) and stepping into 2025 with... I don’t know, hope? Optimism? Maybe just curiosity about what’s next. Whatever it is, I hope it’s good.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and best of luck with everything the next chapter brings your way!