A popular late-night television host frequently features a list of top ten things that pertain to a specific subject. At times they are reminders of reasons for particular happenings. On some occasions, the items fall into the forecast category. In other words, the lists can either look backward or forward.
It reminds me of Janus, the Roman god of gates and doors and beginnings and endings. His double-faced head could look in opposite directions at the same time, seeing the past while also being able to discern the future. He was worshipped at the beginnings of special times, and his depiction appears on many Roman coins around 2200 years ago.
In some respects, the Roman world was much like the one in which we live today—fraught with challenges and opportunities, some of which are conquered and some of which are missed. As we approach the beginning of a new year, perhaps it might be a good time to refresh our memories about what happened in 2005 and to briefly note expectations of what we might experience in 2006. Since I’m not a television host, I’ll not present a “top ten” list. I’ll just include a listing of a few of the more pertinent matters that have impacted our lives this year.
My list must contain the sister hurricanes, Katrina and Rita. The havoc wrought by these natural disasters (particularly the death, destruction, and disruptions of normal life) was unprecedented.
While the initial response to these events wasn’t stellar and many challenges remain, for the most part, safety, and shelter and other means of assistance has been provided. Those who faced these immense personal tragedies continue to be encouraged by helping hands from national and state governments, businesses and industries, and compassionate individuals.
High oil prices as manifested at the gasoline pumps are next on my list. While there has certainly been fallout for many industries, Texas has also experienced continued expansion in productivity and made great advances in job growth.
During the year, newspapers and airwaves have captured our attention with information about events in the Middle East. Of particular interest was the Syrian pullout from Lebanon and Israel’s voluntary withdrawal from the Gaza. But a substantial amount of news has always related to Iraq—not just because we have troops there in harm’s way, but because of the giant strides being made toward democracy by the citizens of that country. In January, the purple-fingered populace approved a constitution, and this month, the brave folks cast their ballots for new leaders of the country. These bookend events of the year are definitely worthy of inclusion near the top of any list of major events in 2005, and their consequences for our oil-hungry domestic economy are profound.
When considering names in the news to be put on my list, two individuals come to the forefront, since their actions have the potential to significantly impact our lives. They are, of course, John Roberts, the new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and Ben Bernanke, the successor of economy icon Alan Greenspan as Fed Chairman. Both will have considerable impact on our economic future in the years ahead.
Though assuredly not of equal importance, two other names that drew significant attention this year were Batman and King Kong. To see these fictitious characters in action in movie theaters and, thereby, contribute to the economy, Americans had to dig deep into their pockets.
Also of particular interest to many Texans this year was the remarkable turnaround season of the Houston Astros, who made it into the World Series for the first time in franchise history. And the eyes of Texas will be drawn to the Rose Bowl in a few days to see the Longhorns in action. Sports is big business these days, not to mention a lot of fun.
If I were to make a list of top subjects on which our attention was focused in 2005, it would assuredly be much longer than just 10, for things affect each of us differently. Suffice it to say that during the year, I have been impressed with the reactions of the American people to the varying circumstances we have faced. Generally speaking, they have been responses of boldness fortified by our unbounded capabilities and traditional spirit of generosity and optimism. As a result, we have seen an increased workforce, moderate economic gains, and expanded productivity.
While Texas and the US will undoubtedly encounter myriad challenges and opportunities in 2006, I am confident in our resolve and ability to solve any situation and to continue enhancing our economies and strengthening our society. Happy New Year!