2020 is coming to an end.
Few would say they are sad to see it go.
We have endured a global pandemic that has changed the way we interact with each other, taken over 300,000 lives in the U.S. alone, and upended the lives of millions more through loss of employment and schooling. Although 2020 has been a trying and tumultuous year, it gave us more time spent at home, innovative ways to socialize, and taught us to value the important things in life: health, happiness, and relationships with those you love most.
I came in to 2020 like most did, looking forward to a new year and the chance to change and experience growth. Through everything that’s transpired this year, I certainly got what I was asking for in ways I never expected.
This year I learned some lessons that I will be taking with me into 2021:
You never know what’s coming next.
If 2020 has taught us anything, it is you can never guess what’s coming next. This is hard to stomach for me because I like to plan things. I like to know what’s coming. But the Bible tells us, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps” (Proverbs 16:9) In other words, we can plan all we want but God has the final say. His plan is already in motion and it is our job to get in line with His plan.
In January 2020, I planned to leave my job by December (this month). Instead I received a promotion that allowed me to renew the passion I have for the work I do. As a teacher, this year pushed me to realize our work is incredibly important, perhaps now more than ever. God’s plan for your life may not have been what you were expecting this year but if you conform to His plan over your own, you will receive an even bigger reward.
You can always start over.
This year I committed myself to taking on various 30 day challenges. I have shared some of these challenges with you, like my Selfie Challenge, my Laughter Challenge, or my Gratitude Challenge. While completing most of these challenges, there were several times I forgot or missed a day or simply was too tired to do the task. Instead of quitting or feeling bad I simply started over again the next day.
In the context of the current recession, many people who lost their jobs due to the economy shutdown earlier this year were forced to start over. I had quite a few friends and family who were laid off. It was hard at first but gradually they landed back on their feet. Some found new careers that were more fulfilling while others launched businesses and side hustles by pursuing old hobbies and dreams they had once set aside.
Maybe you or someone you know is in a place right now where you feel like you will always be stuck in your current situation. I’m here to tell you if there is breath in your lungs, you still have time to start over.
There is more work to be done.
This year I took part in a few challenges that have changed my life, such as my 30-day Yoga challenge and my Meal-Planning challenge. After the 30 days were up, I knew I needed to continue to incorporate these habits in my daily life. Though I am just in the beginning stages, yoga has become an essential part of my lifestyle. It helps calm my body and mind and has worked wonders on my neck and back pains (no one tells you turning 30 hurts). I’ve also stuck with the habit of planning meals since it has curbed eating-while-bored habits, helped me to eat healthier, and saved us money. I’ve started a good thing on my journey to self-improvement but it will only accomplish what I need it to accomplish if I stick to it.
This year, we have seen civil unrest and riots as a result of the poor treatment Black people have had to endure in this country. The pandemic has further highlighted these issues and people have taken a stand against racism and systemic inequality. Support for Black-owned businesses and entertainment has increased as well. A good thing has begun this year but we will only accomplish what needs to be accomplished if we continue it into 2021 and beyond. An election has been won but the fight is far from over. There is more work to be done.
All in all, 2020 will go down in history. We may not know what’s to come in 2021, but rest assured 2020 has taught us enough to be prepared for anything.
Have a Happy New Year!
Photo by Vladislav Murashko from Pexels
What lessons has 2020 taught you? Let me know in the comments!
Comments