So I was thinking about what I was going to be posting for you all since it is New Years Eve and whatnot. Originally, I was going to with just a cute ponified image header and a "Happy New Years" message since that is the standard. But then I ask'd myself something...Couldn't I go with something a little different to spur up some interesting thoughts or responses?

In essence, I wanted to turn tour little end of year hoopla into something a bit more sentimental and critical. But not sentimental in just the sense of looking back at our own personal or collective accomplishments as people. No. Instead, I was thinking that maybe in our endlessly busy lives, we could pause for just a moment. Just long enough to reflect a bit more deeply about about who we are and what we've been through in this crazy little world of ours.

Let's start with a bit of global context, shall we?

As many of you know, this year has been a rather tumultuous one in our brief history on this blue planet. We've had multiple shootings across the United States, whether it be in Connecticut, Wisconsin, Colorado, or elsewhere. Global conflicts of all types continue to unfold in places such as Syria, Afghanistan, Palestine, Egypt and parts of Europe. We've had elections, controversial environmental projects, social movements, historic court cases, and record breaking stunts of all sorts take place. There was the termination of the space shuttle program, A Mars rover landing, the end of Twinkies...I mean, the list goes on and on. But instead of dwelling on all these events, I wanted to bring your attention to something more closer to home.

In one small and relatively obscure facet of our society, something that could only be described as magical was starting to formulate. A unique and culturally diverse group of individuals had fallen in love with the most innocent of cartoon shows. This show, which we all regard so fondly as "My Little Pony Friendship is Magic", had stirred something in all of us. For whatever reason or another, we fell in love with the show, it's characters, it's world. You or any fan may attribute this affinity to one reason or another. But regardless of what choose or in what capacity we choose to express our love for this show, we grew.

In 2012, our collective genius yielded more intricate iterations art, music, crafts, literature and all manner of creative expression than had existed previously. We created and expanded our own physical and virtual networks, where video and audio programming, news sites, entertainment, meet-ups, and conventions flourished. We even put together and added on to numerous community and altruistic initiatives to support causes around the world. Most importantly however, we've fostered bonds of friendships and love that have and continue to transcend our everyday lives.

Now regardless of where you are in the fandom or what you've done, it has to be said that we are no longer that little community of strange people who for some reason are into a show about colorful ponies. We are a global cultural phenomena that's changing the way society thinks about gender stereotypes, art production, and community. We have created a mantra of love and kindness that help breaks through the cynicism and apathy of our world today. We, among others, are helping build a better vision of the world.

We are Bronies. 2012 has been our year, and may I say ladies and gents, it has been a supreme pleasure experiencing this with you all. Hopefully, we can continue to enjoy and build upon this wonderful and unique experience for years to come.

Thank you for reading and Happy New Years. (Berry Punch asks you to please drink responsibly!)

With Love and Kindness friends.

~Rommel