From the Big Bang to the dawn of the 21st century, this video from Now This News reflects on the roller coaster ride of existence. The montage sequence is more impressionistic than fact-driven, juxtaposing powerful images of humanity at our best and our worst. The narrator ends on a positive note, however, saying, "we hold on to hope, because that's what we do best. Happy new year!" 

For more videos from Now This News, visit http://www.nowthisnews.com/.

We want to hear what you think about this article. Submit a letter to the editor or write to letters@theatlantic.com.