Recently, a family member planted pansies in my front yard. I inquired about this plant as we are on the verge of transitioning from fall to winter. I thought to myself, what type of plant would be able to survive the unpredictable Maryland winter? At any rate, I was quickly educated about pansies.

In a few days, we will transition from 2020 to 2021. I thought this would be an opportune time to engage in self-reflection. During the past 12 months, some of us have found ourselves filled with the endless opportunities that 2020 would offer, only to have our dreams disappear due to the reality of a pandemic. Our current way of living has exacerbated feelings and thoughts that caused some to prevail and others to question their abilities. Of late, some have placed their hope in a vaccine, only to be faced with the disappointment of the timeframe for vaccination. With that said, as you reflect upon your life, think about what you would have done differently in 2020? What are some things you have learned about yourself during the past 12 months? Was there anything that surprised you about how you persevered or panicked during 2020? As you look towards 2021, what characteristics do you plan to carry over into the new year? What are some habits that you plan to leave in 2020? Despite the challenges and losses, you survived. While there were days you had no idea how you would make it to tomorrow, you did it and then some. On those days you found yourself crying, you found the strength to turn your tears into joyful memories. When you were told that your employment hours were being reduced, you were able to meet your obligations through unemployment and public benefits. Although you were unable to pay your rent, your eviction was delayed due to the moratorium. When your child(ren) transitioned to virtual learning, they were supplied the device to continue learning. When you thought your child(ren) would have no food, the school cafeteria workers prepared weekly meals. Likewise, those of you who were able to sustain yourself found an opportunity to use your gifts to meet the demands for masks and face shields. Others used their voice and resources to contribute to food banks, churches, and other organizations to provide food and water. Many of you provided shelter and meals to family, friends, and colleagues who found themselves in need. Through it all, you altered your lifestyle in accordance with the CDC Guidelines to maintain your safety. You have found yourself attending weekly worship services which have morphed into a new life and greater sense of hope. Many of you have expressed love and compassion towards strangers. There are some who accessed mental health services for the first time and have broken the chains of bondage. The lack of employment and benefits have given way to new businesses, experiences, and entrepreneurial pursuits. While the shelter-in-place orders have broken some marriages, it has reconciled others. Yet, there are some of you who learned self-compassion and self-love. Despite your experience over the past 12 months, you have shown perseverance, resilience, and resourcefulness. Like the pansies, you will continue to weather the storms of life.

HAPPY NEW YEAR’S

“being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6 NKJV)