Goodbye, 2020.

I had anticipated writing my annual Top Ten moments of the year. But 2020 has been the master teacher and we the unwilling students.
She has done what she wanted during this twelve months without regard for our plans.
This very last day of this year was a mirror of who she is and what she aimed to teach us.
She was cold and dreary yet I found warmth inside my home.
She rained consistently yet the brief respites allowed us to move about as needed.
She restricted the loud, boisterous company to which we were accustomed yet the quiet brought peace I never knew I needed.
She was not the perfect day yet I cannot complain with what she wrought.
Her presence was strong but also fleeting.
This year, this 2020, wrecked havoc on many while bringing fortune and long chased dreams to others.
She stole loved ones but she could not snatch memories.
She forced tears but could not prevent smiles.
She has done what she might and she is now part of our history.
She has given me many moments that could qualify as “Top Ten” but I will not let her limit me this year. I could go on and on and on about the goodness this year has brought me despite her attempts to steal my joy. She did not win.
She might very well be the teacher but I am the keeper of the lessons. I was taking notes.
I am ready for the next professor, 2021.
Thanks to her predecessor, Miss 2020, I am more prepared than ever.
Goodbye.
And Hello, 2021.