New Year's Rockin Eve

New Year's Eve. The time when many turn their attention to what will change and what they would like to change in the upcoming year. You know, resolutions and all. Well, I decided to make a listing of some things that probably won't be changing - at least any time soon. I realize that this summary of non-changing issues/facts is rather anti-Obamanesque in nature. I tend to view this approach as more realistic than pessimistic. I am still a believer in the concept that "consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds." Ralph Waldo Emerson said this. I like to spout this phrase every once in a while to sound well-read. I think I actually heard it on an episode of thirtysomething. Well, I digress. Here is my listing of some situations/facts which will, most likely, still be the case in 2009. There is no significance in level of importance based on order in the listing:

• The conflict between Israel and Palestinians will still exist. This seems inevitable. A few months ago I watched the video of a young Arab actress. She explained that even if a full truce took place between the Israelis and the Palestinians, that the hatred toward Israel will still exist. She described it being almost "genetic" in nature. The actress said that it is like the animosity is passed from mother to child during breastfeeding.
• People are hoping that the financial situation in the United States and throughout the world will improve during 2009. Although things may stabilize to some degree, it will probably be many years before things actually improve.
• The Clintons are survivors. You must admit it. Bill and Hillary tend to rise to the top. As evidence of this, they will even be initiating the ball-dropping event at Times Square this evening. It is almost poetic in nature. The Clintons' balls may drop, but they never lose them completely.
• Despite the fact that many business suffered during the past year, McDonalds will continue to thrive. Let's face it, unhealthful food is cheaper than food that is good for you. Obama's recent pick of Tom Vilsack as Secretary of Agriculture did not do much to boost the idea that farming changes will be occurring any time soon. Vilsack has been called the "King of Corn." Remember, corn is used to make corn syrup - a cheap sweetner. Many were hoping that Michael Pollan would be picked. He is the author of, "In Defense of Food," and is the composer of a recent New York Times article, "Farmer in Chief." In it, Pollan urged Obama to make changes in America's food production. Obama's pick of Vilsack seems to indicate that not too many changes will be happening in this area.
• Poor people will still be poor. Even when middle class and upper class people have some financial stability back, the poor will still be poor.
• Lastly, in the field of entertainment - Brad and Angelina will keep having kids, Rosie O'Donnell (despite failures) will keep having new projects, Oprah Winfrey will continue to be popular, and Dick Clark will continue to be connected to New Years Eve entertainment long past when he should.