Gratitude in spite of challenges


As we end the year, I want to #GiveThanks for 2020.
Wait, what? This terrible year with all its problems and challenges - the impact of pandemic disease, racism-provoked rioting, political conflict, etc. etc.?
Yes, 2020, that's the one. I think there is much to be thankful for *because* of the problems of the year. Perhaps the extremities have given us a new perspective. Take a minute to think about what you've learned, how you've changed in good ways, or what perhaps you now have to truly be grateful for. I hope you find many things to acknowledge. Here are just a few from my list.
- Gratitude for health, life, and ongoing chances. Those of us who have lost any close to us to the disease, or who have brushed up against its impacts personally, have been reminded how precious each day is. Life is a gift! Every single moment of it! And we can very easily lose that gift.
- Love for family. I've had the unique opportunity to live with part of my family, with our son and his wife and two children, for most of this year. We've been blessed with a level of love and appreciation for each other that I will never forget. Other family members seem more dear than before as we recognize forces that can keep us separated.
- Dedicated professionals (especially the "frontline workers" or "first responders) who love their jobs and are committed to the sacrifices required to serve others, even in very challenging conditions.
- Exercise and fresh air are even more important when you are forced to spend more time indoors than normal. What a privilege to be able to enjoy being outside, surrounded by the beauty of creation!
- An appreciation for technology and how it can serve us. The concept of "remote meetings" or the effectiveness of "work at home" have been proven better than ever before. I used to advocate for more flexible work situations in my job (software development) years ago with little success. Now it's a given. I hope we never return to being locked down to physical corporate offices in many professions where it makes sense. Remote family gatherings have also been a blessing for many of us.
- The other aspect of technology that blesses us, when used appropriately, are the various forms of social media that enable us to stay aware of one another and support each other. I have truly been blessed to rediscover and maintain many relationships that make a difference in my life through this way, and to be blessed by insight and wisdom that others share.
- More flexible time. Time to serve, time to reflect, time to learn.
- This year, I am aware like never before of some of the issues related to racism, and perhaps of concepts that mean more now than they ever have, including "black lives matter" and the difference between non-racist and anti-racist. We've come a long way, but there is much left to do.
This is just a start. I recommend this worthwhile exercise, documenting blessings and lessons learned. I encourage everyone to end their year by analyzing all the ways they are grateful for 2020 and can #GiveThanks for what we've learned.

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