There is a lot to be said of 2020. In many cases, it’s easy to look at all of the disruptions, fear, chaos, and stress and put 2020 in a category of a disaster year. Our Seniors lost their Senior year, trips, prom, and all the things that make their final year so special. Countless lives have been lost to this pandemic, and not just by the virus, we can sometimes forget the ones who could no longer bear their struggles and pain. May they not be forgotten. The economic and social unrest at times felt like we no longer lived in the United Stated, for United we had no longer become. I could go on and on for days of what was lost. But, I want to ask you, what did you gain? We can all find some good in this past year. The amazing frontline workers, healthcare heroes, the resilience of the American people, and the scientists who forged a new path in Operation Warp Speed. 2020 is not all lost. For my family, it was about trying to find the good in disappointment, cancelled plans, even crushed dreams. The pandemic forced both of my kids to study from home. Although this came with some stresses, I got to see them more than I had in years during the school day. I have a freshman in college, so I got to hang on to her a little longer before giving her to the world to shape and mold. My husband and I started to work from home. Although, most couples may like the space and time a part, I will say that this time has been cherished, because soon, I know my house will be empty again. My husband travels with is job quite often, for the first time in years we went on walks, played games, and ate at the dinner table a lot. Earlier in the year, my husband had lost his job. The uncertainty and stress initially got to me, however, I quickly realized that I had to have faith that everything was going to work out. And, it did. We changed our way of living, but through that change, we ended up saving money and appreciating every day. This year has been a time of reframing our expectations, accepting change, and finding joy in the simple things. It has not always been easy, but we have come to count our blessings.
So, my encouragement to you is to embrace the change. Look for the good. Delight in the simple joys, and try not to sweat the small stuff. Prayer got me and my family through 2020! As we face a new year that is filled with hope, change, and some relief to our future plans, don’t lose sight the good things that came out of 2020. Take a moment before the year is over and write down 5 simple things that you found good. If nothing else, shopping carts have never been cleaner!! Have a blessed week. I’ll see you in 2021.
