I wish I could brag about learning a foreign language or how to color my own hair. That didn’t happen. I also didn’t lose weight, amp up my exercise routine, or solve a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle Nevertheless, I experienced many good things this year. I managed to adapt my business, and I believe I’ve helped my clients. I’ve been diligent about posting my weekly blog for yet another year, and I got to watch both my Lakers and my Dodgers win championships.
Along the way, amazingly, I’ve discovered that you CAN teach an old dog new tricks. So here are 10 of mine:
Lesson 1: I’ve learned the value of my personal connections. Checking in with friends and family, usually by text, made me feel as good as I’ve felt when others checked in with me.
Lesson 2: I’ve been pleasantly surprised at my own ability to adapt. Going to one grocery store once a week instead of three different grocery stores, sometimes all in one day, has become my new normal.
Lesson 3: And speaking of “new normal,” I’ve learned to laugh at all of the euphemisms being used. In fact, I invented a drinking game for myself. Every time I hear someone use one of those expressions, I pretend to drink a shot..
Lesson 4: People are not mind-readers. I’ve learned to ask for what I need, and then accept the result.
Lesson 5: Having the basics, like food, shelter, water, and a paycheck, are appreciated like never before.
Lesson 6: Leftovers aren’t awful. I realize now that I’ve been a food snob for my entire adult life, turning up my nose at eating the same thing for dinner two nights in a row. This year, however, I discovered Costco’s rotisserie chicken. I ate that sucker four nights straight! (Okay, I admit, I repurposed it . . .)
Lesson 7: Priorities can be adjusted and so can realities. For the most part, I don’t think anybody wants to be told what we can or cannot do That being said, sometimes we have to do something we don’t want to do, for the greater good.
Lesson 8: Staying in my own lane. Although not terribly judgmental by nature, I’ve applied that characteristic to the way others handle the pandemic. (Confession: I did judge the guy in my neighborhood who was trying to sell the 23,000 rolls of toilet paper he hoarded.)
Lesson 9: I’ve broadened the previously narrow scope of my television watching, and have been both entertained and inspired by the quality of programming out there.
Lesson 10: Although this isn’t exactly a revelation for me, I’m focusing on the little things that matter. The comforts of my home, the calls and texts from my family and friends, laughter, even writing my blogs every week.
If you’re wondering when I’m going to mention gratitude, I’m not. I learned that lesson long before 2020.
Thank you for reading this. I wish you good health and joy in the new year
Good read! And I did learn to color my own hair , but not very well I must admit!!
And I know for a fact that you already speak Spanish! You’re two up on me (at least).
You just found out about Costco chicken? I always buy 2, eat one now (yes about 4 days) and freeze one.
I started knitting again ( you know I can’t crochet) but scarves for the homeless.
And I did touch up my hair color a few times!
Great article again-!
Thank you, Sally! Yes, I hadn’t been to Costco in years, so I’m new to the rotisserie chicken revolution. (And to think I used to roast my own!) Good for you knitting scarves! I’d love to see a picture.
Excellent list. And I learned somethings about you (amazing,huh?) like becoming more adaptable about left-overs as one example.
Thank you, Susan. I’m glad you liked my list, and I’m a little surprised you didn’t know about my (former) snobbery about leftovers!
That was a great read! I would make a list but you already know my 10 plus. I am on my second Afghan thanks to you. My greatest joy was having my family here. Not having them in another state. Being able to talk and know they were in this state. And my friends like you are always there when I need them. Just a text or phone call away. Thank you my friend!
I’m thankful that you’re healthy, safe, and that you have family nearby. And I’m especially thankful that you’re my friend.
Lots of food for thought, but I particularly identified with #5 like never before. Things I took for granted bc I was educated enough to have a nice career & worked very hard at it. Excellent list & always on point. Great job.
I agree that it’s easy to take much for granted. Thank you for your comment.