The end of 2020 is nearing, and, to many, this year has been the worst year of their life. There is no denying that this year has ruined many things, has seriously wrought havoc in the world and our personal lives, has caused us stress and uncertainty, has divided people, and has defined new ways to struggle. However, I actually cannot say it was the ABSOLUTE worst year of my life. Now, I'm not going to be that cliche person who starts getting into how hardship is actually a good thing and something to be grateful for. Let's be real: 2020 sucked- and each of us can interpret this truth subjectively, but also know it as an objective fact. No one wanted this pandemic outbreak, virtual learning, even a virtual graduation. No one wanted the worry of them or their loved ones getting sick from a formidable virus. To some, this year has been the worst times they've ever lived— and that is incredibly valid— but again, I cannot honestly state that these are the worst times I've lived, and for that I am grateful. Sure, in a lot of ways this year has been more than a challenge, but I keep in mind that each of us goes through our own personal hell at different times in our lives. For me, I had already crossed that bridge and haven't looked back since. Ironically, the start of 2020 was the peak of my personal happiness— I was really coming into my stride. After years of struggling to find my place in the world, in my community, with friends, and family, I finally reached a place in my life where I really had no complaints. I found happiness, love, and friends for life. So, when I look back on this past year, I can laugh at the symbolism of 2020: a pivotal time in my life for both the worse and the better. A wise friend reminded me "we will end up looking back on this year and appreciate how much we learned and grew" and I couldn't agree more. Literally, everything has been tested in 2020— our patience, our faith, our values, our health (physical + mental), our loyalties, our relationships, and our sanity. If you haven't done it yet, consider that last line and give yourself some FREAKING credit. YOU DID IT and you are continuing to do it, the "it" being life and surviving it. Hang on, and let's hope that 2021 brings us some well-deserved rewards without all the trials.
Wishing everyone a happy and healthy holiday season. Stay safe & stay well.
