During a recent conversation with a close family member, we started to talk about this year and how no one could’ve predicted what 2020 had in store. After catching each other up on the impact on our personal and professional lives (e.g., new family routines, school changes, remote working, cabin fever), an interesting question came to mind.
With all of the challenges, change, upheaval, trauma and even mourning that 2020 has brought: Are there any “gifts within the grief”?
One thing is certain: the importance of mental health and wellness as a core need has been made even more clear.
I wonder if—like a trip to the optometrist—2020 has been a year aimed at giving us “perfect vision”? What do I mean? Well, I’ll pose an open-ended, hypothetical question:
What if this year was designed to—both individually and collectively— help us “see ourselves” more clearly than we ever could before?
Amidst the deep losses that have happened (and still continue), are there any learnings or lessons underneath the grief?
Everyone’s individual experience will (quite understandably) be different. But I’ve heard some people report they’ve noticed:
Forced “pivots” in their lives that—in hindsight—were overdue
Closer relationships with family, friends and loved ones
More clarity around what’s most important to them
Greater appreciation for small things that were previously taken for granted
Many years ago, an old friend and mentor once told me that “Each experience in life has a potential learning in it, but it only reveals itself when you look for it.”
Maybe so. What are your thoughts?
In what ways does this match your personal experience?
What, if any, growth lessons or learnings has 2020 been showing you?
Wishing you and yours true peace.
Warm regards,
Nasir
True Peace Counseling & Wellness