Reflections on 2020
A year ago this month, I remember feeling really excited about the prospect of the year 2020. The year of “clear vision”. I could sense there was a new energy coming and I was excited about what that could bring. If I had known then what I know now…
I felt an optimistic naïveté that I know I am guilty of, at times, and I hope I will find again one day, but for now, I feel guarded, blind-sided, and hesitant about embracing a new year. Anyone with me on this?
Many people are excited about 2021. Again, a new energy a new year and with it, new hope that the challenges of 2020 will end as the year ends. So, before we move on, let’s reflect on what 2020 has brought us.
There were tremendous challenges. The pandemic stopped us from doing the things we love or we had to adjust to a new way of doing them. We must wear masks when we leave our homes of if someone else enters our homes. There has been a lot of loss: job loss, loss of freedoms, businesses have closed or been forced to adapt in ways they hadn’t planned, we don’t see our friends or family members, our holidays are altered, our kids don’t get to do what kids need to do to feel healthy and happy, not to mention the profound fear of illness, the anxiety, the depression and for some, the painful reality of the loss of loved ones.
Our political and social climates also made for a sometimes painful and tumultuous year which didn’t help our already ailing society.
In addition to all of that – and that is heavy – there have been some blessings. There was stillness in the beginning. Do you remember that? The birds seemed to be singing with joy at the silence where there is usually constant movement and noise. There was an abundance of time together for families. We realized what is really important and what isn’t. Just imagine how much we will appreciate the little things once things begin to return to normal!
I’d love to hear from you what your lessons or blessings have been in 2020. While it may not always be good or easy, this is our NOW. Let’s make the best of it and, most important, be kind to yourself and to others.
Wishing you all a holiday season filled with blessings, both expected and unexpected!
With love and support from me to you,
Bette
