The year 2020 was a devastating year that brought along the Coronavirus pandemic, which changed how we work, learn, think, and interact as social distancing and quarantine has led to more of a virtual existence with technology in our everyday lives. The Coronavirus pandemic has created both a public health crisis and an economic crisis. More than 2.07 million people have died from the Coronavirus pandemic, with more than 96.2 million cases and then, also trillions of dollars in economic damages due to businesses closing because of the loss of many workers. Millions of people were out of work the past year and struggling to pay their bills, and more than a billion children missed out on a major time in school.

In the U.S., 2020 also saw the death of George Floyd, disastrous wildfires, and a presidential election unlike any other in modern times. These events made the past year even worse and stirred the pot, representing 2020 even more by adding in devastating events that gave many people fear and anger, which lead to many large protests and riots that added an even more negative perspective of society and life.

There were many events that were dreadful in 2020, but alone the Coronavirus was enough to cause many people to carry the burdens of stress, anxiety, depression, isolation, and overall, just the overwhelming thoughts of the long lasting, dreadful year of 2020. The past year has taught us that the hardships we face and the durability we respond with has the power to shape and influence our lives. With each challenge we are given the opportunity to persevere, learn, grow stronger, and be more compassionate people and society.

“The righteous cry out, and the lord hears them he delivers them from all their troubles. The lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34: 17-18).

I personally believe as a Christian that trying to stay positive and surround yourself with things that lift you up is greatly beneficial toward your perspective on life and your happiness. As I reflect on the past year, the good and the bad I see myself looking over the bible verse, Psalm 34:17-18 listed above because it makes me recognize and remember that we are loved and that no matter how hard life gets and how bad we feel like giving up the lord will always be there for us to catch us and renew us. I have learned, especially from this past year that as I have drawn closer to God and his word that he has drawn closer to me. Along with recognizing that all we need is to have faith in him and be patient rather than depending on our own ways and understandings, since he is all knowing and knows the plan he has for us and has the perfect timing.