Twenty Twenty. What an epic an eventful year it was. Ask anyone 5, 10, 15 years down the road on what they could recall of the 2nd decade in the 21st century and many without a doubt would tell you about the year that we were hit with the pandemic.
Yes – COVID, pandemics, deaths, resurging waves, job losses, black lives matter and vaccines would be the headlines that would dominate 2020 as the year comes to a close today.
My only hope, with him finally gone out of the scene, that there will some semblance of order and diplomacy in the world. My hope is that China, realizing its soft and hard powerplays that it has embarked and unleashed on the global arena has in itself repercussions; that given its might, its also limited and at the mercy of death’s door, and more importantly, it needs to be a better global team player instead of trailblazing on a populist propaganda.
My other hope is that we, as a people, and as a society as a whole come to realise the importance of people in our life. For too long, we have taken those around us, our friends, colleagues, families for granted. The pandemic certainly made me realize that I can’t just simply go back and visit my family on a whim, or even more importantly, that I shouldn’t grumble or complain/whine when I need to go back and see my family. Realizing that I have not seen my siblings and father for more than a year now, despite living so close has made me see things differently – that I shouldn’t take my family members for granted. Along with family, realizing the importance of colleagues at work was also a dominant theme for me this year. Having to work remotely for the most part of the year made me miss those conversations that I would have with my colleagues. That’s also something I shouldnt take for granted.
And finally, looking closer to home, to God and my family. With the cancellations of Mass, not only was there a loss of communion with God, but it became harder for me to reach out to God. I missed those moments where I could pop by the adoration chapel be it at St Mikes or the Cathderal and spend some good quality time with the Lord. Staring in front of a screen to adore God not only tires your eyes, but it increases the distractions even more. Working from home also meant I got more time with the family, which also allowed me to see the struggles and pains that wifey goes through. Coping and keeping up with the little small fella is no chicken feet as I would find out more this year. Definitely thankful that the wifey has more patience and is far more skilled to manage household affairs compared to yours truly.
So here’s to 2021, may it bring better experiences and healthier relationships for all.
