"Nothing's gonna change my world..."

I interrupt my year-end round-up for something with a little more gravity.

For about ten years or so, December 8 has been a day of mourning for me. As I'm sure anyone paying attention to any media sources today will be aware, it's the anniversary of John Lennon's murder. Since discovering the Beatles a decade ago, I've taken the day to listen to music, watch footage, and generally reflect on my favourite celebrity of the 20th century.

Five years ago, while observing the 20th anniversary of Lennon's death, I learned that my dear aunt (and godmother) had succumbed to leukemia.

For so many people in this country, December 6th is (rightfully) observed as a day of mourning, as we take time to reflect on the senseless 1989 tragedy at the Ecole Polytechnique. But for me, for far more personal reasons, December 8th is when it really hits home.