Reflections on an Extraordinary 2020
2020, with its unprecedented challenges, was a year of unexpected insights and personal achievements. As the year drew to a close, reflections on my experiences shed light on the resilience and fortitude that characterize this extraordinary period.
Spending Quality Time with Family
One of the most significant silver linings of 2020 was the extra time spent with my family. The absence of work trips, side jobs, and constant travel meant I could focus more on those closest to me. With nothing to distract me from my home, I cherished moments with family and friends. Despite the occasional tests for COVID-19 and the loneliness of not seeing many of my friends for several months, the simple act of staying home brought a sense of comfort and togetherness that was invaluable.
Personal Resilience and Health
Tragically, 2020 also brought loss and hardship. However, amidst the turmoil, important changes and affirmations emerged. I remained alive and employed, circumstances that are indeed remarkable given the global pandemic's impact. The USA and the world, under the shadow of a pandemic, will inevitably mourn those lost, yet also recognize that survival is a testament to our strength and resilience. Overall, 2020 could have been much worse, and I am left with a sense of gratitude for the simple acts of being and living through such times.
Productive Year Amidst Challenges
Despite the challenges, 2020 turned out to be highly productive for me. My personal life was characterized by numerous achievements and advancements. Structural projects in my home included replacing the second tier of the deck, installing new windows and patio doors, and trading in my aging RAV4 for a more recent model. This not only improved my living conditions but also provided a tangible sense of personal accomplishment.
Moreover, I invested significant effort in updating my entertainment center, transformed the second bathroom, and renovated the master bathroom. These improvements not only added value to my home but also enhanced the living experience. Additionally, I initiated a retirement portfolio for my younger sister, a thoughtful gesture aimed at securing her future. On a larger scale, my late father’s extensive library was packed up and relocated to a college in Michigan, preserving an important part of our family’s heritage.
Academically, I achieved milestones as well. I unfurled and moved the vast library of my father, demonstrating my commitment to memory and legacy. My academic pursuits also yielded promising results, as I launched and funded two scholarships at the university I attended. These initiatives, one for undergraduates and another for graduate students, specifically targeting those with disabilities, showcased my dedication to education and the advancement of marginalized groups.
Reflecting on these accomplishments, I am proud of my personal growth and the positive impact I have been able to make in my community and family. As 2021 approaches, I am prepared to embrace new challenges and continue to invest in my future through a newly acquired master's degree in cyber security, a field that promises both personal and professional growth.
While 2020 was not without its hardships, the year ended with an array of achievements that provided a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Even as we look ahead, it is important to recognize the small victories that define our journeys through adversity.