Learning from 2020

2020 gave us time to reflect on what’s truly important and create a vision of what we want to become and do. So what have I learned in 2020?

1. Hard work never stops. Gosh, how I’ve loved watching my son’s journey as he leans into his goal of becoming an engineer. He pivoted when his summer intern position was COVID canceled; he took a couple of classes instead so he “could use time wisely”. In the fall when others stayed home to go virtual, he remained at the University of Michigan to do blended learning and continue with labs. Along came September's job fair, Austin engaged and recently accepted an engineer position with an international company! He will be working in Chicago the week after he graduates in May 2021. At a time when others are finding it hard to locate work, this young man has secured his place in his dream job; to say we are proud would be an understatement. Hard work and hard decisions continue to pay off.

2. Different isn’t necessarily bad. There isn’t a life that hasn’t been asked to go somewhat virtual in 2020. Each educator has endured learning how to quickly pivot to teaching on a virtual platform. With this came different ways of thinking and many failures/opportunities along the way as we looked for how to make this work better for our learners. Educators have been pushed like never before to adapt and change learning environments. Much of what we’ve learned along the way has actually changed our thinking about the importance of student voice, collaboration, and ownership. Many educators have learned that technology is a powerful resource, but we must use it differently than we have in the past. Cheers to the many collaborative spaces that have emerged from teachers trying new resources! You bet it has been hard, but oh the moments of joy when different worked well for students.

3. Cheerleaders in life are important. We all need people who make us feel like we can do it and this year definitely had us leaning into those people. I hope you have at least one person (if not many) who fill that role for you. For me, my spouse is a voice who always helps remind me of my purpose and helps me brainstorm ways to move forward. He is such a great source of encouragement and positivity when I am struggling. Ricky is constantly my rock in this world that is full of challenges, obstacles, and plenty of reasons to be discouraged. He reminds me daily that we get more in life when we do for others and listen closely to what may help someone along his/her journey. If you haven’t asked someone lately, “How can I help you?” I challenge you to start there and see where it takes you.

4. Gratitude and hope make a difference. These just might be the greatest “gifts” we can offer others. We acknowledge fear and grief, but we must seek hope and gratitude. We cherish our family and friends. We build connections rather than fall into the trap of isolation. We show ourselves the same compassion we’re showing others. We remind ourselves that even though some of the losses will stay with us, this situation is finite – it will end and we will recover to move forward. Our conversations need to turn to one of opportunity – action we can take and positive impact we can have. We remember what we are thankful for and hope to see value in all the little details around us daily. Let’s make sure the good stands out; let’s become noticers of the good in our lives!

May 2021 be a year where being grateful resides at the forefront of my heart, thoughts, words, and actions. I want to live with abundant hope. I want to work hard and do for others along the way.