Believe

As this most memorable year draws to a close, I feel a need to reflect on how 2020 has transformed our lives.  An overarching theme that I have observed is that many of us share a unifying belief that what we are currently enduring will bring brighter days.  Like all things, we believe this moment will pass and make way for a more justly designed tomorrow.

2020 has taught us how to live with uncertainty and find joy in what is.  Suppose we chose to employ flexibility and adopt a learning lens. In that case, we can honestly reflect on what matters most, shared humanity. The great pause of COVID 19 has allowed us to reflect on our values and priorities to reconnect with the most important.  Perhaps we recognized inspirational moments of synchronicity and positive change. Maybe we also took time to shine a light on darkness, reflect on where we could have, and should have done more. Noticing precisely how and where we need to make change to authentically support one another.  To examine the year with an open heart, coming from a place where we can work harder across our differences together.

Whatever arose, as individuals or larger communities, is a greater awareness and an ability to pivot, shift, or step into the power and momentum of our common humanity. 2020 allowed us to pause, reflect, sit with our discomfort, and let go of what is no longer serving us to make space for a new normal in 2021.  The great pause of 2020 has challenged us to adopt a new lens and employ many new vital behaviours.

Like many of you, on a personal level,  this past year has also provided many silver linings.  As I endured the loss of what was, my unanticipated free time allowed me to spend precious time alone, in nature, and with family and friends, both virtually and distanced.  I rediscovered passions that I had let life get in the way of.  I welcomed my first grandchild, completed yoga teacher training, and became an Indie author.

I am hopeful we will forge ahead in 2021 to continue to challenge the status quo that was not serving everyone equally. The year 2020 forced us to appreciate relationships and invited us to re-examine our social norms to ensure they reflect our values.  Our values and policy should be equitable and inclusive of all common humanity.  Similar to compassion, I believe humanity is a verb. Dr. Vivek Murthy invites us to embrace the power of our shared humanity. To live with abundant grace for one another while moving forward with the dynamic common humanity we all deserve.

I trust that beautiful things are about to happen. I believe it.

I welcome your thoughts.