2020 Recap
2020. Quite a year. Definitely not what was expected, am I right?!
What started out as a year full of hopes and expectations, quickly changed to a year of learning and growth. And as many people want to forget 2020 even happened, it's a year that I will hold dear for years to come.
The only disappointment that comes to mind is missing out on the Jonas Brothers in Vegas...
I still got to travel to see dear friends and meet new ones. I took in some music by my crazy talented friends in their living rooms and backyards. And I still saw them own the stage at outdoor concerts.
I found a new appreciation for technology. Zoom calls and FaceTime are the greatest! I spent time reconnecting with college friends that I wouldn't have had otherwise. I got to share virtual lunch dates with my niece. But I sure appreciated the moment that I got to hug her in person for the first time in a year.
I grew closer to my inner circle and learned to rely more on them. I recognized the importance of the roles they each play in my life and embracing those simple, yet precious moments I get to spend with them. I had those moments where we were just talking and laughing and I realized that somewhere along the way, they really had changed my life. And I had those moments where I was looking around at all the people I loved most and realized I am so loved and blessed beyond measure.
I enjoyed moments spent alone. And I began challenging myself to grow in new ways. There have been things that I have wanted to do for years but have never tried or put in the effort in doing so. Well, I took December to learn those new things! I taught myself to knit and play the ukulele and I started writing music. But I also began to recognize the need to take mental breaks and learn that it's ok to simply relax and spend time doing nothing. Confession, I spent a lot of time binging Netflix and spent a lot of money on craft supplies. Everyone needs a break and taking one doesn't make you a failure or mean you're selfish. Recognizing your limits is a gift and a huge milestone in itself and I think that was probably the best part of my year, when I realized I am very capable of being by myself and doing things for myself, not for others.
I experienced the Savior's love in new ways. I was reminded of His promises through the rainbows, His warmth through the summer sun, and His presence through the winter storms. And I was given the opportunity to serve and lead in new capacities.
Maybe 2020 wasn't what I had in mind. But I sure grew to appreciate what I have more and more. And I grew to love the people that I have in my life more and more. And I thanked Heaven every day that I had a job, that I was healthy, that I was doing things I enjoy with people I enjoy. No, it wasn't what I had in mind but it still exceeded my expectations.
