Chapter One

A Life in Such Perfect Conflict

People are people. Whatever culture we may hail from and no matter our differences, there are extra-special times when many of us share the same traditions. Two of these traditions arrive hand in hand every New Years’ Eve, and nearly all of us can relate to them both.

The first begins just a few hours before midnight, as thousands of revelers gather in public squares to ring in the New Year. The second tradition follows close behind, as an army of news reporters brandish microphones and stroll the sidelines to ask celebrants the time-honored question: “Do you have any New Year’s resolutions you’d like to share with our audience?”

Alcohol-fueled responses containing wish lists of hopes, dreams, and aspirations follow. Who among us hasn’t heard:

• “I want to make more money!”
• “I’m going to lose 25 pounds!”

However, we almost never hear someone say:

• “I’ve been dissatisfied with the fruits of my labor, so I’m going back to school to learn some new skills.”
• “Lately, I’ve been reducing sweets and snacks in favor of healthier things—but what I need is to find is a 24-hour gym in my neighborhood.”