Reflecting On 2020

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Sharing this poem by Leslie Dwight because it really speaks to my heart and I believe many people can resonate with it as well. The poem also brings an apt closure to the year 2020 which has been a rough and challenging year for many globally. 

Despite the gloom and doom brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide affecting millions of people physically, mentally and financially, there have been silver linings. Amidst the fear and despair in the global health crisis, we hear and see real-life stories of front-line workers risking their lives everyday to save the lives of thousands and millions others. Similarly, ordinary folks are banding together to give free food and provide transport for the front-line and healthcare workers as a show of solidarity and gesture of appreciation. These heart-warming acts of goodwill, kindness and sacrifice bring hope amidst the hopelessness, smiles despite the tears, and break down walls of complacency and aloofness among humankind to ignite a spirit of grace, unity and togetherness in all of us. It’s like the sleeping lion has awakened from its deep slumber and now sounds its mighty roar of aliveness.

So 2020 may have cancelled some of our joy, freedom, finances and for those afflicted with the COVID-19 virus, health. But it has also brought about changes — change in mindset, attitude, perspectives — and instilled courage, perseverance and resilience in many of us. So if you ask me if the year 2020 is wasted, my answer is NO. In fact, 2020 has been a most significant and fulfilling year for me. Within this year, I have delved into the studies of cognitive behavioral therapy, and found my calling in coaching and mentoring others. With the aid of technology, I’ve reached out to other like-minded individuals from other parts of the world to share coaching skills, and provide free mentoring and help to those who need encouragement and guidance during this time of turmoil and uncertainty. I’ve also completed writing a book and am one step closer to achieving my author dream. This year, I’ve also read more books (a total of 15 books) than I have ever read in the past few years. These are not major achievements but certainly small accomplishments I’m thankful for.

As the year 2020 comes to a close, let’s not cancel or bury away this year in our memories but remember it for its significance, the life lessons it brings and let’s look forward to 2021 with renewed confidence and hopeful anticipation. 

Have a blessed year ahead. 

Spirit of Christmas

The true spirit of Christmas is not parties, feasting or gift exchange. It’s giving, of your time, service or in other forms, without expecting anything in return.

Christmas is not just a date every year nor a mere festive season. It’s a precious opportunity to pause and reflect on the important things and people in our life. It is also a time to look back at a very eventful and challenging year of fighting an invisible but lethal enemy — the COVID-19 pandemic that has stirred up a chaotic global health storm and doesn’t seem to have abated — and still count our blessings and be thankful to all those who have sacrificed their time and service to make a difference.

To me, Christmas is gratitude for every little blessing, hope for a better year ahead, and being with my loved ones who truly matter to me. We didn’t even put up our family Christmas tree this year, because there are other more important things to be concerned about. But there’s still joy, peace and love within our family and that is what really matters.

So let’s celebrate Christmas in our hearts in this pandemic year, even if you can’t gather every family member or friend in person due to social distancing measures. Amidst our quiet celebrations, let’s remember those who have lost their lives in this pandemic and say a prayer for those still fighting the battle. Let’s join hands and hearts to shine a light of hope and love for those who have lost the joy and hope of Christmas.

Blessed Christmas, everyone! Stay safe and let’s look forward to a better year in 2021.