This past weekend was the 1 year anniversary of the day I got laid off from my job. It was the start of what is certainly one of the strangest 12 month periods I've lived through - so far at least. So I've done some reflecting...
There are a lot of things that have changed in the last 12 months. Some of them obvious (I don't travel any more) and some of them likely a bit more subtle (I've gotten much more spiritual). I've had my confidence shaken and I've been fearful of what the future will bring. I've celebrated new beginnings and learned how to be more flexible. I've reached out to others and I've withdrawn into myself. I've created and planted and read and cleaned and renovated. And I've sat staring dumbly at stupid TV. I've been disappointed and elated. I've canceled plans and I've made new ones.
In the last 12 months I have realized that there are really only a few things that are truly important to me - God, my family, and my health.
My job loss forced me off a merry-go-round that was going too fast for me to be happy and healthy. It also forcibly removed me from a situation that was more toxic in hindsight than I could see in real time. It wasn't what I asked for, but it was exactly what I needed. Then Covid forced me to slow down even more and focus on the people closest to me. If those two situations - a one-two punch if you will - weren't a sign from God to take heed, then I don't know what is.
I've mentioned before that I have a sincere hope that people will use whatever their experiences are through this pandemic as an opportunity to SEE something new - in themselves, in the world, in God. I hope that there are lessons learned and that this whole mess isn't for naught. I pray this regularly. Actually - forget the Covid mess - I pray that people will use all of their experiences (good and bad) as a way to be better. I can look back at some of my hardest times (think 2 lb Quinn in the NICU for 42 days with a 16 month old at home, for example) and realize that GOOD came out of that situation. I pray that everyone can choose to be grateful whatever the scenario. This is the reason I am always sharing Gratitude reminders on Facebook. It's my mission to remind people that there is always something to be grateful for.
I can only speak for myself in saying that 12 months into this tumultuous year I am happier and I have better relationships with all the fine men who share my home. I think that's a pretty big deal. And I am thankful to God for leading me to this place - however weird the road.
Here's a fun picture of my big boys from last weekend's wrestling tournament. It wasn't a particularly successful weekend for them as Quinn ran through a bunch of REALLY good competition and Spencer hurt his foot in the very first match and was forced to sit out the rest of the tourney. But they learned a lot, they had fun with their friends, and I got this amazing picture of my boys.
Have a great week everyone!
No comments:
Post a Comment