It’s been a tough year for everybody. Hundreds of thousands of people have died from COVID-19, millions have contracted the virus, and still millions more have had to put their “normal” life aside to take care of sick relatives and homebound children. Many with psychological challenges have seen their suffering worsen, and people who have never known depression and anxiety are now having to navigate that nightmare.

And still, there is so much to be thankful for. Those who know me know I am definitely not a Pollyanna. I struggle at times to find the positive in circumstance, but I am – almost always – able to see, understand, and find validity to opposing sides in nearly everything.

There’s so much to say about this year, but for now I’m going to leave it there and focus on…

What I am grateful for:

1. I have had several months to sit back and re-evaluate my work life, discovering where I fit in the world and what I can do to make it better.
2. I was able to spend quality time with both of my cats before they died, three solid months with ‘rissa and seven with Silk. I can’t imagine how it would have been if I hadn’t been home every day during that time.
3. More than anything else, I think, I’m grateful for my cats and the years we had together. I am so blessed to have had them in my life.
4. My 85-year-young mother. She is my best friend – loving, caring, goofy, silly, and I love her, even if she doesn’t care for cats. LOL
5. The natural world. I have always felt deeply connected to all aspects of nature, but this year I renewed my awe in and love for trees, insects, birds, and all things non-human. We are all a part of the same world and there is no other choice but to honor them and offer them the same dignity and respect we offer our fellow humans.
6. My health and the health of my family and friends. No one in my family has contracted COVID-19 and friends who have were able to recover with few ongoing issues.
7. Hope for a safer, friendlier, saner, and calmer year moving forward.
8. Friends, near and far.
9. Did I mention cats?

I know I’m leaving a lot of stuff out, but it’s a good start, don’t you think?