While those in the U.S. are still milling around, preparing for New Year’s Eve celebrations, other countries around the planet have rung in 2015 with a bang. 2014 saw the loss of many loved celebrities like Robin Williams, Maya Angelou and sadly so many more. It also brought a wealth of heart-breaking divorces and more sadly, the wars that have hurt nations, such as the war over the summer in the Gaza Strip. Many people lost loved ones, married new loves and are looking forward to the new year with hopeful trepidation.
Check out how other countries celebrated the entrance of 2015.
Australia
The nation has been involved with one of the most expensive search operations for missing Malaysia Flight MH370. The plane is nearing the 10th month mark since it disappeared from the radar on March 8, 2014. It is with high hopes in 2015, the grieving families can finally get closure.
New Zealand
The country suffered losses in their country, from a toddler being accidentally hit by a vehicle, to a birthday party stabbing and a vehicular accident that claimed the lives of a well liked teacher and student during a school trip. The country is ready to close the chapter on tragedies and start healing in 2015.
Malaysia
The country has suffered losses of massive magnitude. From the disappearance of MH370, to the shoot-down of MH17, many relatives seek closure. May the new year ring linked with closure for hundreds of families, and a renewed strength for the airline industry.
Japan
In early October, this strong country fell silent as Mount Ontake erupted, claiming 48 lives. The eruption was noted as the worst volcanic disasters in Japan since the 1920s. The mountain trails on Ontake drew tourists and local residents to scale its beautiful depths. The chapter of this sad year closes out as the country looks to renew in 2015.
What are you looking to close out for 2014? For many, 2014 was a year of sadness and collecting the best memories from loved ones before a final goodbye. Share your thoughts and desires for 2015 in the comments.