The year 2020 will always be remembered for COVID-19 and the pandemic as well as one of the most debated presidential elections. But this does not mean that 2020 has to end on a negative note. In the turmoil of this year, it has become crucial to find joy wherever you can. While the holidays will look a little different and family gatherings may be a little smaller, you need to find joy and ways to celebrate the things you have vs. focusing on what you don’t have.
Holidays are typically a time for traditions and for family but this year is a time for creativity. Favorite holiday recipe usually made by an aunt or a grandma? Here’s an idea…Type up the recipe and email it to the family for everyone to make and enjoy during the family holiday Zoom call. Usually decorate holiday cookies with all the children? Here’s an idea…Make the cookies and mail them to each household with frosting, sprinkles, etc. for a group decorating session.
You can also create new holiday traditions that may end up being permanent additions. The meaning of the holidays is to celebrate life and acknowledge joy. 2020 might be the most challenging year in our lives, but one can still find moments to be appreciative and experience joy.
As we move toward 2021, it is necessary to look forward with hope. Not just hope that life will return to normal, but hope that the lessons of 2020 will be learned and therefore the struggles not repeated.
The New Year acts as a clean slate, time to start fresh. Forget resolutions, instead focus on hope. What do you hope to see in 2021? What do you hope to accomplish? While the turning of the calendar to January 1st will not erase the current issues, it is a symbol of moving forward. Go into the New Year being thankful for what you have, joy wherever you find it, and hope. Because with hope, even the darkest of times can have a glimmer of light. May 2021 be all that you hoped for!
Michelle Culver, LMFT
