The Final Week of 2020

Dear 2021,

You could not come soon enough. I’m not one to linger on the past, so I won’t lay blame or tell you all the ways you could’ve really improved things by arriving sooner. Your evil stepsibling, 2020, was wholly irresponsible and honestly, a lot of us are wary now of what dangers you might be hiding. I think it prudent for me to outline my expectations for the coming year.

Only nice surprises, please
Kindness is the law of the land–and this means: no name-calling, no physical violence
Allow us to heal
I want reason and order
Give those who need it an extra kick of Empathy Cocktail
End poverty and hunger
Bring together friends and family who’ve been separated too long
Let artists do their art
Let scientists do their science
Let activists bring about awareness and positive change
Let every person have a voice
Give us lots of great books
Bring us inspiration
Bring laughter

And finally, let 2021 be like a romance novel, where good triumphs, and love wins.

Thank you, 2020, for whatever small mercies we were given (because I realize it could’ve been worse, although that’s hard to imagine). And thank you, 2021, for ushering in a new year and allowing me to hope for and envision something better.