2020 — A Year No One Can Forget
Even as we face the second wave of the pandemic, one simply cannot help but look back. As the firecrackers burst and loud cries of cheers welcomed the year 2020, little did anyone realize what lay ahead of us. Within a matter of a month or two, everything changed. The contagion and its aftermath had taken complete hold of our lives. None of us had ever experienced anything even remotely similar.
With time, we accepted, adapted, and adjusted to the new normal. We came across challenges, found solutions, and learned new lessons along the way. Here are some of the lessons that I learned in 2020.
Resilience Wins
The lockdown was announced at a short notice. The list of to-do things seemed endless. And everything to be done while keeping in mind the social distancing, masks, frequent washing, and sanitization. Suddenly, everything was DIY with no domestic help. The entire family started working or studying, as the case may be, from home. Uncertainty and fear were everywhere. Taking one day at a time, we got through this phase.
Gratitude
The doctors and the other health workers, policemen, municipal workers, bank employees, and several other frontline workers risked their own lives, so that we may get a chance to keep ours. Loss of income, financial and medical emergencies, the tragic loss of a family member or a friend — people had to face a lot. I feel a deep sense of gratitude for life itself and what I continue to receive.
Less is More
We, as human beings, need very little to live by. The pandemic has brought forth a profound question, do we really need all that we have and continue to amass? I considered myself a minimalist, until 2020. I was wrong. I needed even lesser than I thought. Happiness is not connected to what I own.
Giving Back
Everywhere there are people who need help. It could be in terms of financial assistance, job assurance, physical help, emotional support, or professional advice. I will continue to help in whatever way I can. That is the least I can do when so much is being done for me.
Continue to Learn
During the pandemic, I enrolled in a few courses that would help me in either being a better professional or upgrading my soft skills. I worked, practiced, and improved. Learning should continue as long as life does.
Finally …
All around the world, people are praying for themselves, their families and friends, and all those who have been badly affected by the contagion. Prayers give us hope. Keeping faith and hoping for the better things to come, will help us tide over this crisis. Take care and keep safe.
