Israel ushered in the New Year Wednesday night by raising a glass. Holiday parties brought people wishing for happy beginnings together from in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and all around the country.
Many may have taken a moment to hope the next 12 months will be rosier than the those that preceded it. It was a trying year for the nation, full of security, diplomatic, and economic problems, but that didn't get in the way of the buoyant atmosphere.
Some people surely felt enthusiastic to say goodbye to 2014 as they tooked forward to a hopefully more tranquil and happy year. As they inaugurated 2015 with dancing and drinking, Israelis showed they are still hopeful for what's to come.