2020 Lessons
The unforgettable TwentyTwenty is over. Well, at least the calendar says it’s over. But how do I move forward when not much has changed? January 1 does not really feel any different than the December 31. The days are still short and I’m still isolated in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. The whole world is on shaky ground. Yes, there is light ahead, but it’s like the sun has not come over the mountain. All I can do is wait and hope that patience prevails.
I appreciate the ritual of New Year’s. I love the chance to reflect. Although 2020 was a dumpster fire of disaster, there were indeed some morsels of goodness that I am taking with me into 2021.
Here are a few lessons I learned in 2020:
My morning meditation practice helped me remain calm in challenging and turbulent times.
Walking my dogs every day cultivated my appreciation for Mother Nature, her seasons and the wonders of the universe.
Minding my business and staying in my lane helped me be more compassionate and less judgmental.
Letting go of things that I “should” do created space to focus on meaningful work.
Some days parenting was my only job. I had to surrender and realize that my career and family are not mutually exclusive.
Listening and responding is superior to reacting.
After the murder of George Floyd, I learned that my white privilege comes with various benefits and advantages not shared by people of color, and that there is no such thing as just not being racist. I am either a racist or an anti-racist. I know which I want to be, but being truly anti-racist takes time and training.
Technology is a brilliant way to connect, but it is also an easy way to disconnect. I prefer connection.
I didn’t realize how much I valued traveling, concerts, reunions, dining out, and hugging friends until those things were taken away from me.
I have never so appreciated my family and their ability to adapt and maintain their senses of humor.
When my 2021 calendar is packed again, I wonder if I will remember these lessons? I hope so, but time will tell. To do that, I will need to remain mindful and disciplined.
I have resolved to make 2021 better not just for me, but for many. Instead of making a New Year’s resolution to improve myself, I want to help the community in which I live and work. My goal for 2021 is not just to leave 2020 behind, but to bring with me my learnings and share the wisdom 2020 brought.
It was a year far too rich to leave behind.
I wish you all a beautiful and prosperous 2021.
Cheers.
