I have started several entries that I have never finished. I wish I had. This is New Year's Day, January 1, 2021! For many, 2020 will have been a year to forget. It included a world-wide pandemic that led to or contributed to so many lost loved ones. It saw the closing of many businesses and the loss of employment for so many hard working people. There were wild fires, tornadoes and hurricanes. Glaciers are melting at a record rate. Peaceful demonstrations were high-jacked by looters. Politics was more about power than people.
But, 2020 is also a year to remember! We learned that by being responsible and respectful, we could help protect the lives of others just by wearing a facial covering! I haven't had even a cold for almost a year! It was a year that I learned to pay more attention to my health! I hiked a lot and start 2021 eight pounds less than I started 2020. I am at a good, healthy weight. I had a squamous cell cancer removed. No big deal, but I mentioned a long existing spot to the Doctor. It was successfully removed, but things could have been a whole lot worse! I learned to listen to my body!
I saw people showing compassion. Providing resources to others and asking for nothing in return. Loyal volunteers who were there to help in any way they could. We learned we could grow closer to people, even if there was a six-foot distance between us. Some of us learned that being alone doesn't mean lonely. I learned to relish the quiet times. Some of us learned new things, from a Zoom meeting to face-timing. We learned new ways to stay in touch. We saw dedication to others in a way we hadn't seen before. From front-line health care workers to the cashier at the grocery store, people stepped up to care for others!
As difficult as 2020 was, I hope we don't forget the lessons learned. Lesson #1, above all, be kind! Wishing everyone continued personal growth throughout 2021. Happy New Year!
