The Universe Snapped its Fingers
If I was asked to recite the most common sentence I heard throughout the course of the year 2020, the first one that comes to mind is, “I can’t wait until this year is over,” or at least something close to that. I expressed this sentiment myself, several times. I have profoundly agreed with those I have heard say it. Similar to most of you who are reading this, I have had countless passionate conversations with those in my life about the special frustrations and points of contention that infiltrated our lives in 2020.
However, hidden amongst the dregs of anxiety, frustration, and fatigue, I found myself noticing something very special about that year; there is something I have learned from those with whom I have engaged in the aforementioned conversations. I have learned that there is a level of growth that we all have withstood. Regardless of how obvious or nebulous the experience has been for you personally, the year 2020 was the catalyst for adaptation, change, and reflection on a global level. It was as if the universe snapped its fingers and sternly announced, “Pay attention and listen. Right now.” There is a myriad of reasons to feel an overwhelming sense of burden. You don’t need me to tell you that. However, I think there is something extraordinary in the prospect that every person worldwide has possibly felt that same burden. There is an untapped power in such a camaraderie. It is a moment where we can all take a deep breath together and assert that while the nuance of our individual experiences has certainly differed, we understand that everyone is feeling their own version of angst.
I do not find it necessary to list off all the misfortunes I have felt. I do not find this necessary because this blog is not about me. This blog is about elevating the voice of the collective and sharing the perspective of others so that maybe we can find a little of ourselves in their experience along the way. The content you are about to read is true stories from real people. People who experienced the year 2020 in a way that no one else has; similar to how no one experienced the year quite like you, the reader.
