WHAT I LEARNED FROM 2020

It is the last day of the year, and what a year it has been. For all of us, 2020 brought surprises, challenges, and change. For many of us, 2020 was also marked by grief, pain, anxiety, and loss. I hope that in between the pandemic, the political madness, the racial trauma, and the myriad of upsetting events of the year, each of us found moments of peace and joy, however brief they might have been. Though I am happy to leave 2020 behind, I know that little will change when the clock strikes midnight. So I decided that instead of new year resolutions I wanted to choose some lessons to take with me into the new year. 2020 was not what we expected and in that comes the first lesson I wish to take forward. We cannot control what happens to us but we can try to control how we react. Life (and this year) are unpredictable, and often the best of plans crumble around us. This year taught many of us that when things are out of our control we can do small things to make the best of the situation. Whether it is re-framing how we see the moment to find a silver lining, or changing our approach completely we can always have some choices in how we may improve a situation. We can try and react with grace, or strength, or empathy, all of which are likely to lead us to a better place than anger or intolerance. In the vein of choosing how to react to what happens around us, I have re-learned the importance of appreciating and celebrating the small joys in life. Often in the hustle and bustle of life, we focus only on the big moments, promotions, engagements, trips, etc. In a year where we were forced to take pause, small victories became essential. Whether it was finally learning how to cook a good salmon, sticking to a skincare routine, or making sure to call loved ones each week, it was all about the small things that bring joy and purpose. While at times these small achievements might feel insignificant the reality is that our lives are made up of small moments. Choosing to celebrate and find joy in these small moments leads to a greater sense of fulfillment. Finally, in a year where so much life was lost, where so many moments of joy were stifled, and where the world seemed to be so dark, it can feel impossible to rescue good moments. And in those dark days, the lesson we learn is that if we can survive, then this moment too shall pass. There is great comfort in knowing that you have walked through the darkest night and lived to see the dawn. So to the new year, I wish you all the virtues that got us through 2020: patience, kindness, resilience, humor, and empathy. May 2021 show us all kinder days.