I think we can all agree that 2020 was not the most joyful year in history. But if it has taught me one thing, it is that life is too short and the people we love are more important than any “thing”. COVID has really challenged us all collectively and individually, but the one thing that I hope to take away from this year is the many blessings that I have. Instead of choosing to remember all the bad that came from the past several months, I think we should all rise above and be grateful for a new lease on life and a perceptive adjustment that has changed us all, hopefully for the better.

Family is Everything

When South Carolina shut down, and we weren't allowed to leave our homes or see loved ones and family members, it was very isolating and lonely. And although I will be the first to admit that homeschooling is not for me, it was nice to have the world slow down for a bit and be able to focus on spending time with my children away from the hustle and bustle of soccer, gymnastics, activities, etc.. When I look back at this year, I will remember it as a time that I got some extra moments to focus on the things that really matter – even though it was difficult, I have memories of experiences that I might not have gotten.

Cherishing Relationships

All of us who have elderly parents had a very stressful year. Unfortunately, my parents, who were very careful to protect themselves, still came down with COVID. It was a scary time where I was afraid to lose them. But it also reminded me that people aren’t going to be around forever. And it is super important to put time aside, even schedule it, to make sure that you spend time with people in your life. Remembering how fragile life can be is a blessing if it makes you stop and take time out to spend your time wisely. And also not forget about the people in your life that you take for granted.

Lessons Learned

Never before have people worked so hard to keep everyone safe. No one wants to wear a mask, but we do because we collectively care for one another and those who are more vulnerable in the community. I am so proud of the way that Summerville has come together to help each other. Many people have given their time and sacrificed for the greater good of us all. It has been a great year to watch how kind humanity can be.

Our First Responders and Medical Professionals Everywhere

When you think about putting your life on the line for your country, the military comes to mind. But there were countless numbers of medical professionals in Summerville, and worldwide, who put their health in jeopardy to fight COVID. They spent tireless hours under stressful circumstances, so let me extend my gratitude for all of your amazing work!

Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful, and this year, possibility even more so. We lost a lot of people to COVID, but it has also made us cherish our own lives and the lives of those we love. The fallout from the pandemic allowed me to press pause, if only for a little bit, to see all the blessings that are easy to gloss over and take for granted.

So, as we near the holidays, I want to say thank you to our community, our health care professionals, and the clients who have stuck by us throughout this year and always. Please know how grateful I am to have you!