2020. What a year. From growth to challenges to new learnings and everything in between. Who would have thought that we would be celebrating this holiday season over Zoom and FaceTime? I certainly never imagined that we would be living in this fashion; I don’t think anyone did. But through all of the wild aspects that this year brought, there are a multitude of things to be thankful for that should not be overlooked.
When I walk into the kitchen in the morning, the first thing I hear is the news. Morning after morning, it seems as though there is always something new to worry about. It’s no secret that we live in a world full of tragic news, but that same world also has just as many, if not more, amazing things to celebrate. During this holiday season, it is more important than ever before to focus on joy rather than the harsh realities.
Photo by Global Sojourns Giving Circle
One thing I am grateful for this season is the aspect of togetherness. This may seem like the worst word to use in describing this year, but ironically, it perfectly captures 2020 as a whole. Although the pandemic may have physically separated people, contrarily, it has united so many people across the globe. Every event that occurred this year, including the pandemic, is something that we are getting through together. In 2020, we have all learned, grown, and developed. It is so important to realize how strong we can be as individuals when we work together as one. This concept of community is one of the many things I am grateful for this season.
Photo by Rise and Shine Girls Club
For the girls in Zimbabwe, the need for club gatherings and auntie mentorship is overwhelming. Several new clubs have been created to work towards fulfilling the demand for community and togetherness. Just because it may seem as though the girls in Africa are miles away, the reality of their life in 2020 is no different than ours. I have certainly gained a greater appreciation for the blessing of human interaction, and forever feel a sense of gratitude for the time I’ve been able to spend with family and friends. We are all living through the challenges that this year brought and it is vital that we finish out the year strong, together.
I encourage you all to take a few minutes to watch the video below. It gives a very interesting perspective into all that has been accomplished this past year for Global Sojourns Giving Circle. Exciting things are happening!!
Love, Emily