It’s 2003 CE (common era). That, of course, is another name for 2003 AD (Anno Domini), a calendar system invented in the 6th century by Dionysius Exiguus to limit the confusion caused by the use of different, regional systems for labeling years. It’s also 1423 in the Islamic calendar, Meskerem 1996 in Ethiopia, Vikram Samvat 2059 in the Hindu calendar, 2756 AUC (Ab Urbe Condite), and 5763 in the Hebrew calendar. Surely, these year numbering systems are sufficient clocks of the Long Now.

This year I resolve to work and play as the situation warrants. I was introduced to the notion of new year resolutions fairly late in life. I don’t find the idea particularly appealing or useful. I make resolutions throughout the year, so I don’t think decision-making necessitates a special occasion, much like I don’t think a self-help guru is required to stimulate me to improve myself. I am fairly sure that new year resolutions are responsible for a January spike in gym memberships.