The Annual Flaunting of Gratitude

[Listen to an audio version of this blog HERE.]

A few weeks ago, I wrote about how exhausted I am by….everything. 2020 has been stressful, challenging, emotionally exhausting, heartbreaking, and heartening. We are more isolated than ever. More distracted. More divided, or at least it seems that way. People are people, though. We all have so many things in common. Most of us have felt overwhelmed by responsibility. Worried about finances. Concerned for a loved one’s health or safety. Concerned for our own health or safety. Frustrated by a policy that did not make sense or did not seem to consider or include us. Most of us have felt joy, love, triumph, and pride as well. Most people want to be happy, and that’s an important consideration. Nobody is born hateful or spiteful or cynical or filled with animosity. Most of us make choices based on what we know, not what we imagine. Most of us also allow fear to dictate at least some of our choices, and most of us don’t even realize we’re doing so.

2020 may have been a difficult year, and it’s not over yet. But, I have found a few silver linings: I’ve saved money since I haven’t been able to travel or go out as much. I found a renewed appreciation for my friends and my family. When life gets hard the people who really love you will be there. 2020 has taught me that. This year, I’ve also been able to write more than…