Reflecting on 2020
The purpose of this post is to let you know that you are not alone. 2020 was a year where we all struggled, and continues today. Whether it was in big or small ways, 2020 was a year of stress, hardship, and frustration for everyone. 2020 for me goes a little like this:
According to my husband this was going to be “our year.” Many of my friends had milestone birthdays (hello thirties) and most holidays landed on a weekend. We were going to celebrate.
Then we received the tragic news of Kobe Bryant and all the other passengers. We were devastated to see a childhood idol lost in a moment’s notice. We are reminded that tomorrow is never guaranteed.
Next the pandemic took over. Need I say more?
We had multiple vacations cancelled, including our first trip to Europe.
My Grandma passed away in June to cancer. My other Grandma passed away in November.
I suffered a miscarriage in October.
This all sounds incredibly sad, I know. It is easy to fall in a hole of self-pity. I do not ask for sympathy, but instead empathy. Because I know that many people had similar experiences. Regardless if the moments are big or small, they are all significant. They are hurdles we must overcome.
I struggle just like everyone else. Sometimes it is hard. And it is important to ask for help. And surround yourself with a strong support system. Despite these hardships, I am reminded that 2020 is a year where I grew, my relationships deepened, and I started to let go. It is easy to get caught in the day-to-day. These are the moments where I lean on people that will call me up and challenge me to reflect on what really matters, which is enjoying the present, dreaming about the future, and loving a little deeper.
I’ve learned a few things. Some small lessons, and some big. I’d like to share those things with you.
Grandmas (and grandpas) are the best. And we often take them for granted. I reflect on my own memories and see how my children have the same special relationship with their grandparents as well. I pray that I can pay it forward to our grandchildren one day.
Where there is loss, there is love. This is my second miscarriage and it didn’t get easier. It happens to so many and yet, it is often not discussed. If this is you, you are not alone. I am here to listen, grieve, and be with you.
Slow down every now and again. This year I didn’t have a choice. As a result my husband and I learned to golf, we spent more time hiking and playing outdoors, and we got creative with art projects and other activities. It is a reminder to try new things and go outside your comfort zone. You never know what passion or hobby you will discover.
Let’s make 2021 a great year, no matter what it brings.
