Finding the Silver Lining
What a year we have had! When, in all of history, have we shared a similar reality-shifting experience like the pandemic? But as a result of the global health crisis, we have a unique opportunity to reflect together on the last ten months of our lives. Perhaps, we can even grow together from this ground common to all of us.
As many of you know, my bent is to find the silver lining in every cloud. For you trivia buffs, I was interested to discover the idiom stems from a John Milton poem dating from 1634 entitled “Comus” that reads, “Was I deceived? or did a sable cloud/Turn forth her silver lining on the night?” Isn’t it fascinating that this historic stanza has encouraged us to look for the positive for almost four centuries?
If ever there was a year where we need to find the good in the bad, it is 2020. If ever there was a time when we need to hunt for reasons to hope, it is now, while we are stuck in a persistent quarantine from life as we knew it.
I have considered what changes 2020 has brought to our lives, and I was able to find examples of real encouragement: Yes, we have been separated from one another, but I believe we have more appreciation for being together, for sharing hugs with the people we care about.
We also understand more than we ever have that the presence of others in sickness and grief is irreplaceable to bring comfort and divide sorrow. And while we had to be concerned for our lives and the lives of our families, we are most likely much more grateful for good health. All of us have felt somewhat trapped in our homes, but we have had the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and engage with our families in new ways.
I have also been so impressed with the adaptations of the business world. We have found creative ways to connect with our co-workers and customers and continue to build relationships virtually. Many offices were able to develop workplace flexibility to ensure the health of their employees and allow people to keep their jobs. I don’t know that we would have ever dreamed these changes possible without the lockdowns of 2020.
I know I have learned to cherish the simple times and to put aside the chaotic busyness for the things that matter to me. You may share my perspective that we are considerably more resilient than we were in March when this all began.
2020 has left me even more grateful for the precious things in life. For my family and friends, for my health, and for you, my clients, that I have the privilege to serve every day.
And let me also say, my heart goes out to all of you who experienced the worst of this pandemic year with job loss, Covid-19 diagnosis, or the tragic loss of a loved one. We pray for new jobs, recovered health, and comfort in your grief. As we enter the beauty of this season, I hope you find silver linings in both this past year and in every cloud you may encounter in 2021.
