2020 is almost in its last quarter and some of us are still plotting out or writing our survival guides for the rest of a year that has presented us with change, loss and/or challenges to face and overcome. We may not be sharing the same boat, but the storm has likely damaged us all in some way or another, and I doubt any one of us will be the same once the dark clouds dissipate and life returns to whatever normalcy will eventually look like.
When I tell my story one day, it will be a tale of how some exceptional friends and family members helped me get through the last six months and grounded me enough to face those to come still. As one close pal who is much better at math than I am reminded me this week, we are only through the first third of this nightmare. It will be a story with a supporting cast of amazing folks who have kept me going when I was ready to give up. Some sat with me patiently while I cried and spilled out my frustrations and fears over coffee, drams, and shared meals; others offered the wisdom of their experiences and specialized knowledge to remind me why past events were presenting such difficulties in coping with current ones; there was also gentle yet perceptive advice from some of my closest and oldest friends, as well as beautiful distractions of laughter and wonderfully inappropriate banter to make the hard moments lighter and my troubles or sorrows seem smaller. There were quick notes, phone calls, and shared photos from friends far away, as well as backyard and front-porch visits that filled me with great joy from those who are closer geographically. I cannot wait to be able to hug all of you again when this madness is over. There was also specifically the demonstration of such bravery and strength in watching two very dear friends dealing with their own incredibly difficult struggles with such grace and resilient determination that it made me want to emulate their courage in the face of obstacles that are minor in comparison to their situations.
From this rich tapestry of deep friendships and connections, I have weaved together a plan for the fall that will help me heal myself physically and emotionally. I hope that my superheroes and angels recognise themselves in the sentences that pertain to them, and understand the pivotal and irreplaceable role they have played in advancing my personal story to a happier ending for the year.
I have such immense love and appreciation for each one of you, and I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity of spirit, kindness, patience, wisdom, and for showing me also what courage and strength look like in the face of adversity. I am truly humbled, fortunate, and most of all deeply grateful that you are in my life.
