The Gift of 2020
2020 has been very interesting to say the least. During this year many of us have gotten off the hamster wheel. Some of us felt pushed off, but none the less we are off and although stunned and dazed we are looking around – really looking around and taking a moment, not just any moment, this moment – to reassess.
Our current situation, like all trials, has given us a gift. The gift of observation; the gift of knowing only that which is present and close and the desire to understand it even more – namely our children.
We are watching our children and wondering how they are interpreting the world of mixed messages and complete upheaval of normative behaviors they have known.
We are standing in awe as our children navigate the ins and outs of their new life. Mesmerized as they calmly look for the bright side in the remote birthday party, interpreting the world through a computer screen and a sea of faces half hidden. Trying to reconcile the cancellation of the annual events they have come to know and depend on.
We are noticing our children’s complete surrender to a hug and reassuring smile from us. Their joy in seeing a friend after months of separation. The new found connection they have made with their own backyard. Their honor and worry for their grandparent’s well being. Their delight at being in school experiencing each interaction and each activity with delight.
We collectively are remembering what is most important – not the new Playstation, not the 5 nights a week activities, not being the top of our class, or the school hall and neighborhood drama…what is most important for my children right now is:
- to know they are loved
- to know we are and will be here for them
- to know we will solve the problems that arise
- to know they can express their thoughts and feelings and be heard
- to know with God’s help, we will endure
- to know that we chose to thrive
As we close this year out, let us drink in deeply the satisfaction of knowing we have honored the gift we were given – even if it was wrapped up in the many trials of 2020. We will be thankful for this gift. We will not forget its benefits.