The dawn of 2025 brings with it a wave of New Year’s greetings from various corners of the globe, each carrying messages of hope, joy, and reflection on the year past. Among these greetings, the renowned Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki, known for his heartfelt storytelling and vivid imagination, has once again graced fans with his artistic touch.
This year, the Studio Ghibli founder illustrated an adorable New Year’s card, featuring a mythical eight-headed serpent to celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake according to the Chinese zodiac. This illustration accompanies wishes from Toshio Suzuki, the co-founder and director of Studio Ghibli, who expressed empathy for those affected by natural disasters over the past year. Suzuki stated, "We hope those affected by disaster can return to their daily lives as soon as possible..." highlighting the studio's commitment to hope and resilience.
Across the ocean, the leadership team at Université Laval shared their own New Year's thoughts, wishing students and faculty happiness, health, and success. Their message emphasizes the importance of exploring new ideas and cultivating genuine relationships within the community. They stated, "May this new year be synonymous with happiness, health, and success for each and every one of you..." inviting everyone to make the most of the opportunities presented.
Meanwhile, The Maine Libre, operating without print editions on January 1st, focused on digital outreach by providing readers with free access to their content, which contains reflections on 2024’s significant events. They conveyed heartfelt wishes for the new year, affirming their gratitude for reader loyalty, stating, "Best wishes to you and your loved ones for 2025..."
On the sports front, the Girondins de Bordeaux also reached out to their supporters, hoping 2025 would mark the end of troubled times for their club. They expressed their desire for renewal and revitalization, encouraging fans to join them on this hopeful path. Their message succinctly concluded with the simple yet heartfelt greeting, "Happy New Year 2025!"
From illustrated greetings to messages of support, various figures and institutions have shared their hopes for what 2025 will bring. These heartfelt messages underline the universal desire for connection, healing, and progress, setting the tone for the year to come. Collectively, they remind us of the power of community and the shared experience of welcoming another year, filled with possibilities.
Celebrations worldwide have mirrored this theme of reflection and hope. Lives were celebrated through fireworks, gatherings, and quiet moments of meditation as people from Paris to Tahiti welcomed the New Year with open arms. Each culture adds its unique twist to this annual tradition, creating memorable experiences not only for participants but also for the larger community.
For many, the transition to 2025 is not just about the festivities but also about resolutions, intentions, and aspirations. People from diverse backgrounds voice their desires for personal growth and collective change. From commitments to environmental sustainability to promises of community engagement, New Year’s announcements carry the weight of responsibility and optimism.
With reflections on the past year and aspirations for the future intertwined, the spirit of New Year’s greetings fosters unity and encourages individual action contributing to universal success. The illustrations, words, and gestures resonate as we acknowledge another year and the fresh start it offers.
Looking forward, the call to action remains strong: let us capture the essence of renewal and strive to make 2025 noteworthy. The reflections shared by Miyazaki, Suzuki, University Laval, The Maine Libre, and others provide not just greetings but also guiding principles for approaching the year with positivity and collaboration.
Happy New Year to all, and may 2025 be rich with health, prosperity, and the joy of togetherness! Together, let’s create meaningful moments as we step forward together.