Is 2020 over yet? It is a common saying these days as 2020 has been one of the most challenging years in quite some time. We have had to deal with a global pandemic that seems to keep marching forward, economic strife, isolation, protests for equality (much needed), and a heated political race if you are in America. All of this has led many people to lament that 2020 is a cursed year, and it is true it has been hard on many fronts, but I think it has created some opportunities for us all.
Hopefully, we have taken the time to appreciate our lives and be thankful for what we do have and not thankless for what we don’t. The coronavirus solidifies the fact that we are all connected. The only way we can protect each other is to take personal measures such as wearing a mask, distancing, and sacrificing the things that we took for granted before Covid-19. We cannot have the attitude, “I may feel sick for a couple of days, and then I will be fine.” While that is true for many people, it is not the case for others. The virus has captured many people’s lives globally and affected countless others. I am also thankful for the front line workers who have worked to combat the virus.
This year has been challenging, but it has given way to many opportunities to let your light shine. Light is even more useful against a dark backdrop, and the world needs more light. We can be the light that helps someone make it out of the darkness. It could be as simple as listening to a family member, a friend, or a co-worker. Maybe a donation to a food pantry or volunteering to help people in need. Just because we are experiencing extraordinary events doesn’t mean we cannot help each other. There are opportunities aplenty; however, we may have to get a little more creative.
I am a firm believer that we are not here on earth to stress, fear, be sad, or anxious. Yes, there are times where we will have these feelings, but I do think we are here to experience joy and kinship with each other. If we can try our best to empathize and appreciate each day, we can have greater happiness. As the human race, we must stop stereotyping certain groups and instead realize that we are in this together. We need unity. If we all pull in the same direction, we can truly make this world a better place, not only for ourselves but for future generations.
Please do not lose hope. We need to hope for things to get better and believe that they will. It takes hope plus action to make the world a better place, and I know that there are good people in this world. There are people each day trying to help others. There are people each day who seek to uplift and spread kindness. Do not let the negativity in the world diminish your hope and belief. Find the light and do your best to amplify it, and each day will be a little better. We can overcome our challenges together and find greater happiness and peace along the way.
Nunc Coepi 