Digressions: My Life in 500 Words or Less

The temptation to sum up this year in a way that seems deserving — to lambaste every contributing element that made it a struggle for so many — is natural. This has been an unprecedented year in many agonizing ways, and I am convinced we are a long way yet from seeing things getting substantially better.

But this is not what I believe this year has been about.

While I have witnessed a wide range of despair, hopelessness and discord, I also have also seen many other things.

Alongside fear of an unknown virus, I have seen the bravery of workers staring a dangerous assailant in the face.

Alongside division in the political arena, I have seen the metaphoric outstretched hand of community members reaching for connection in the virtual landscape.

Alongside disenchantment with law enforcement, I have seen recognition of those who exemplify selfless service to all.

I have seen small acts of kindness between neighbors and strangers. I have seen perseverance in parents, students and teachers.

When spirits foundered, I have seen individuals step in to raise them back up. I have seen musicians play virtual performances. I have seen individuals offer their ears to those who needed them.

I have seen video skits and compilations designed to make viewers smile. I have seen lights and banners displayed on porches and workplaces, celebrating fortitude.

Though it has not always been as obvious, I have seen the embodiment of love, compassion and hope. I have seen communities give food, assistance and themselves.

These human characteristics are there, beneath all the rubble of the past year, beneath the devastation and dismay left in the wake of a perfect storm of catastrophic construct.

The other night I watched a holiday show on television that included performances by a choir and band. The choir was masked and socially distanced. Band members who could do so also wore masks.

And I was reminded what the real point of this year has been. It is not about how horrible things can be.

Not at all.

What is most important — as far as I am concerned — is the way many of us have met those horrible trials, how we have risen to those challenges.

In our home, we celebrated a couple of milestones: my 60th birthday and our 35 anniversary. We decorated our home for Halloween and Christmas.

We tried to maintain, as much as possible, our normal schedules.

So here’s to the frontline workers who regularly stare down the barrel of a threat. Here’s to those who continue to find the strength to smile and create smiles in others. Here’s to those who share their talents to give respite to those who have grown weary.

Here’s to everyone who has not succumbed to the hate mongering or given into the risky social behavior that perpetuates this virus. Here’s to those who forge ahead despite the obstacles.

Here’s to everyday people living their lives as best they can.

Here’s to us.