Dear 2020,
As the 2020 year comes to an end many people find themselves less than optimistic for the next year. Since March, here in Virginia, we have been experiencing the effects of a Pandemic, loss of life, more isolation, extended time with household members (Families and Roommates, …), division (promoted by Media, and other platforms), exposing social injustice, social distancing, protests, riots, extended unemployment, loss of careers, and loss of homes. Needless to say we would love to forget this year. I read that from chaos, you have two options, and they are panic and opportunity. This is visible with the rioting and distress seen on social media, in our neighborhoods, and depression experienced by humans around the world. In regard to opportunity, the investors of the world have seen some big jumps in their stakes with Medical stocks and Tech, along with several others. It almost doesn't seem fair how companies like Amazon and Walmart thrive while your local businesses suffer and in some cases lay off their life long employees with no idea when they will be able to return to work, or career.
Now in December, almost everyone wears a mask, refuses to shake hands, no hugs (love) and in some cases will not leave their homes to visit friends or family. Thus, leaving the world open to false news ads, political unrest, and public displays of aggression between peers, family, and strangers over a social media platform. In grocery stores, we have seen shortages throughout the year and the inflation of cost for goods and supplies. Before I go any further, I want to thank all of the essential workers for working throughout the year with no break insight or additional Cares Act pay, especially the nurses and doctors first and foremost. Not to leave out the McDonald's or grocery store workers either. They never stopped their routine in the face of the world attempting to do their best to hide behind closed doors. Again, thank you.
Stimulus checks went out, Extra Care additional funds, and others perks were available but unfortunately not all of the citizens reaped the benefits. Many of those that did, spent it all instead of saving it for the upcoming trials and challenges. Now, they suffer from not knowing where their income will come from, especially when your job has closed or furloughed you. One thing I've learned and noticed is the "powers that be" are getting better at using the media platforms to control/confuse the masses. From rioting in the streets to promoting political views, and now causing people to not believe in the integrity of our own democracy, the media is scary today. On the other end though, churches are closed or at minimum capacity, but people still find a way to indulge in their religious practices. Families still have small gatherings and people still reach out to people via internet and cell phones. It has always been my belief that the good will always outweigh the bad, no matter what we may see on TV. Another harsh reality is the Covid -19 Virus is real and many families have lost loved ones.
We've learned to survive all throughout our history so I don't expect this to be any different, but 2020, I wont miss you at all. You took Kobe, Kobe though?? We've watched a basketball season in a "bubble" and baseball season with little to no fans. At one point all we had was Korean baseball to watch for live sports. Football is played with little to no crowds but the fans cheer with digital and soundbite additions. Date nights with wives and husbands have been altered, and not to mention divorces have went to an all time high this year. You learned who you're living with this year, didn't you? Some bonds became even stronger. Kids began virtual school in preparation for college as parents scrambled to find supervision, and searched for answers on google as we help with homework. Other parents headed to work while the kids played in the streets or hung out with friends.
This is the life given to us for 2020. It is up to you to make the best of it and take advantage of the chaos. Find your opportunities, mind your surroundings and look out for those who cant. This too, shall pass.
