As I reflect on 2020, a few words come to mind – upheaval, uncertainty, adaptability. None stand out in describing this year as much as the word fragility.

Life is fragile.

Everything that serves as our foundation can be changed in an instant. That is what 2020 taught me. We think that our going to work every day or international travel or attending church are non-negotiables – rock-solid. 2020 snatched the illusion of rock-solid away from us.  

There is nothing that can’t be changed in an instant. The immense uncertainty of it all is at once unbearable and also the most beautiful gift we can be given.

The fragility of life has taught me to say I love you, and I’m sorry more often (and mean it). It has taught me that this moment, or relationship or work or whatever is in front of us, will not last forever. That knowledge gives strength to persevere through struggles or motivation to hold tenderly and gently to the beauty of what is temporarily in our hands – knowing it may fly away on the next breeze. The transience of life has prompted me to let go of self-doubt, fear and whatever other excuses I can come up with and look for opportunities to serve and connect because life has enough problems on its own without the ones I create inside my head.

I don’t know what 2021 will bring, but I know this: I want to be open to the joy and opportunities in front of me – to serve, to connect, to become. I want to do my best not to take what I have right now for granted. I want to hold the moments lightly, with reverence and gratitude.

Thank you to each one of you who have read my blog this year – over 5500 views from 71 countries. I appreciate you.

Happy New Year!

Sue

P.S I’m going to be leading a 6-week mental fitness course starting on January 11th. Save the date and let me know if you would like more information.