2020 was a year like most of us have never experienced. Social turmoil, a pandemic, economic downturn, social isolation, and violent terror attacks. Conversely, there was also a resurgence of families spending time together, children playing outside, an awakening of faith, a renewed appreciation for many things we’d long taken for granted. Over the next several weeks I will share some of the things I learned and experienced.
The first thing I learned was to appreciate what I have. I was fortunate not to be furloughed from my job when many others were. I had mixed feelings, a little bit of envy. I can think of numerous projects I would have completed with all that time off, including editing my current work in progress. However, there were glitches with the unemployment benefits and some colleagues were still waiting for their first payment over a month later. Watching my meager savings account dwindle in an effort to keep the basic bills paid would have place tremendous stress on me. I thanked God for knowing what was best and keeping me where I needed to be during that period.
When we shifted the remaining employees to working from home, I gained a great benefit. I saved money in gas and tolls, had an extra two hours of free time without the commute and the physical toll on my body diminished. Sure there have been some technical challenges and an adjustment to working from home, but nothing that has outweighed the benefits.
In the fall, when layoffs were announced I had no idea if I would be safe, but because I recognized God’s hand in the previous shift I wasn’t anxious. I knew that whatever came, it was part of God’s plan and I would get through. Again I was spared and my heart broke for my friends who were left adrift.
We might not always like where we are or even understand it, but looking at what others have and seeing only the positives of what we think they’re experiencing is a dangerous endeavor. Rarely do we see the trials they’re facing and the fears they’re struggling to overcome.
We may not always realize we’re comparing ourselves to others; it happens unconsciously as we scroll through social media or listen to our friends regale us with stories of their latest vacation or new home purchase. I learned several years ago after I paid off credit card debt accumulated trying to keep up with my friends, that I didn’t need to have the latest gadget or dine out all the time to be happy. Little lessons all through my life helped prepare me for what 2020 would throw at me and for that I am overwhelmingly thankful.
I hope you will join me on this journey of reflection and share your own experiences as well.