2020: What I Gained

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Col 3:2).

At the beginning of each new year, I like to look back at what worked and what didn’t in the previous year. By discovering what went well, I can move forward and do more of those things.

In 2020, each of us experienced both gains and losses. It is hard to say that 2020 was good by any stretch of the imagination. I believe it is more appropriate to say that some good came from the events of 2020. For example, I wrote a blog post early in the pandemic about people delivering and dropping off groceries and prescriptions for those who couldn’t get out and shop for themselves. Good happened when people looked outside themselves and their comfort zones to help others.

Upon reflection, I have realized some of the good things in my life that came from 2020. A summary of the top five follows. Continue reading “2020: What I Gained”

Restoring Lost Connections

“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken…” (Ecc 4:12).

I used to believe that I would rather stay home and hide away from the world than interact with people, who can be unpredictable and judgmental.

In my early twenties, I put this belief to the test when I lived in a foreign country and did, indeed, rarely leave my home for a brief time. Because I didn’t know anyone at first, I was afraid to leave my apartment to go to the store or church alone. However, loneliness quickly set in, so I ventured out and made some very good friends that I still keep in touch with today. Continue reading “Restoring Lost Connections”