What 2020 

   Has Taught Me

This image of a padlock on a school locker, spoke to me quite profoundly when I saw it today.  My first thought was to edit it a bit, perhaps add a filter or two, spruce it up a little? Then it dawned on me; the reason this picture had made such an impact was because it wasn’t pretty, on the contrary, it was real. 

The 2020 school year has been messy, this year was to be my big start in a new job.  Many of us have seen hopes and dreams shut away, trapped behind a web of chaos, slowly gathering dust.  Upon more reflection I realised that whilst this image was more powerful without a filter, the strength of 2020 lies in the filters we choose to view it through. 

I’ll be honest, I have struggled during these six months of lockdown. My home, which has always been my sanctuary, suddenly became our school, our work place, dance studio and recital hall. It became a counselling consulting space, a hub for virtual gatherings, our playground and our place of worship.  Suddenly I had no place to retreat to, no quiet region or refuge.  But this picture led me to look at 2020 from a different angle, viewing it through a new filter. 

So, instead of asking what has this year taken from me? Maybe it’s time for a rephrase... what has 2020 given me? 2020 has taught me to connect in new ways, to re-prioritise and trust not in my own understanding.  I have learnt to think outside the box (more than I usually would), find contentment in the little wins and joy in the mini breakthroughs.  I’ve enjoyed randomly blessing my neighbours and had the honour of receiving gifts of love from family and friends. 

This year has thrown out the challenge of shifting through the noise. Letting go of things that hinder and investing in what we treasure most. My fear of failure has been given no time - risks had to be taken or my livelihood lost.  My painful perfectionist streak has had to be silenced - for one cannot micromanage mayhem.

So whilst I began 2020 with great enthusiasm, big dreams and a treasure trove of experience to draw from, these things currently lie dormant. Paused until the time is right. Waiting to be unlocked, thrown open and cleaned up. In time these things will be called to the fore again and I will have the privilege of adding my new-found skills and latest insight. 

Constantly readjusting my eyesight won’t be easy. I know some days I will forget the rose coloured tint and find myself caught up in the web of confusion.  But deep down I know, that thanks to 2020, I will be stronger, wiser and more versed in the vicissitudes of life.

What filter will you choose from today?