No year in recent history has been hated so much thousands, if millions, of people from across the globe have been wishing for 2020 to be over since October—or maybe even earlier.
When we entered this year, we were promised “clarity,” clear vision, because, well, 20-20. It was also seen as a fresh start, as it opened another decade. Many of us were hopeful, excited, even, to tackle our goals, to go places, to meet new people, to experience new things.
And then January rolled in.
International tension that almost led to World War III and the tragic death of basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna opened the year. Here at home, the Taal Volcano erupted on Jan. 12, which marked the beginning of yearlong mask-wearing as it was followed by the COVID-19 pandemic slowly creeping into the Philippines
Fires, earthquakes, typhoons happened in and outside the country. We lost many beloved celebrities and personalities, and most especially people we know due to COVID-19 and other causes.
Go places? No. This was a year we had to stay put, literally. That many got stranded where they were when lockdown protocols were put in place. Some walked for days, hitched a ride, or biked their way to their destinations because mass transportation was not available.
Meet new people? Not quite. Handshakes and hugs are discouraged and we had to shift to virtual meetings and meet-ups.
Experience new things? Well, we sort of did. It was a year we created and recreated several food trends and other social media trends—some danced their boredom away on TikTok. Many took advantage of the opportunities that suddenly opened—free online courses, free webinars, and free virtual concerts, among other things. And many opened small businesses.
Love it or hate it. The year 2020 has indeed hurt us in unprecedented ways, but also taught us many things, one of which is how to be stronger, smarter, and kinder as we face another year.
Here’s to the pain we should leave behind, and the joy we are eager to welcome in 2021! Happy New Year!