Reflection

Matthew 7:12 “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you…”

As I look back on this year, 2021, that’s coming to a close, I have so many thoughts. This year was not a good year for me. I cannot sugarcoat it. After 2020, most of us went into 2021 with cautious expectations. By December 2020, we started to hear rumors of a new Coronavirus variant. We were buoyed by the creation of the new vaccines and looked forward to a year where eventually, the pandemic would come to an end. Unfortunately, as soon as 2021 began, there were feelings of deja vu. Talk of new variants became more frequent, and by the end of the year, here we are with the most transmissible variant thus far; Omicron. So, it appears as if we are about to start another year with worldwide uncertainty.

Nonetheless; 2021 was not just a year of more Covid news, although most of the time, it seemed like that was the case. For me, it was a year of stop and go. I made plans which I invariably had to cancel. This went on for several months, until I almost lost track of time. Eventually, I was able to get myself somewhat back on track, but I feel like my life has a big gap that is missing. A gap I fear over time, is more difficult to fill. I am always trying to play catch up. It becomes tiring after a while. I know for many people, life just goes on, somewhat seamlessly, regardless of what is going on in the world.

Despite all the uncertainty in our midst, I still think we have to look for the good things around us. We have to be grateful for the things that do go right – for our health, for the health of those we care for, for love…if you are lucky to have love in your life, for just being here….still. There are so many people who can’t say the same. I am also aware that times are tough for some, who may find it difficult to find any gratitude in these times. To those folks….I say, just find one thing to be grateful for and try to focus on that.

To end with another biblical quote. Genesis 4:9….”Am I my brother’s keeper?” To respond to Cain’s question…..as a Christian, or just being part of the human race…we are all our brother’s keeper. And, brother does not have to be taken literally to mean a sibling. If we live our lives with this belief, especially in these difficult times, the world would be a better place. We are all connected….if we haven’t learnt anything from Covid, it sure taught us that. Let’s look out for each other. And, as we reflect on the past year over the holidays; let us also remember the true meaning of Christmas…the celebration of God’s gift, the birth of Jesus. So, after another tumultuous year, I wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2022.