Humble and Kind

2020 has been a year of unprecedented occurrence.  To varying degrees, the virus has affected us all.  It’s led to isolation, loss of livelihood and in many cases, loss of life itself.  Families ripped apart, so many have suffered deeply.  Fights over equality, politics and government control have left gapping wounds in the unity of our people.  There is no denying, this has been a year filled to the brim with pain.  

But, something I have learned repeatedly, throughout the periods of greater suffering in my life, is that every crisis has, tucked within it, the opportunity for boundless growth & evolution.  Each hardship we face, each loss, each disappointment, each death of a dream, is a chance to turn within, humble ourselves further and expand to another dimension of understanding, kindness and authenticity.  

On a personal level, this year has been one of radical change for our family.  We left our home unexpectedly, moved to a new state, gave up an expansive support network, a stable income and proximity to our family, to take a leap of faith into the unknown.  Despite the many blessings and privileges, we’ve been afforded, it’s been a rocky transition.  

It’s been a time of being ‘comfortable with uncertainty,’ a concept still far beyond my grasp. A time of immense frustration, unraveling and being humbled to a deeper core.   A time of rebuilding from the ground up, redefining what matters and re-envisioning our future.

 “Humble and Kind,” is the song that seemed to fit our year end YouTube video for 2020. It captures the sentiments that I wish could resonate within us all, as we together, hope for a graceful exit from this tumultuous time. 

"Hold the door, say please, say thank you
Don't steal, don't cheat, and don't lie
I know you got mountains to climb but
Always stay humble and kind

Don't expect a free ride from no one
Don't hold a grudge or a chip and here's why
Bitterness keeps you from flyin'
Always stay humble and kind

Don't take for granted the love this life gives you
When you get where you're goin', don't forget turn back around
And help the next one in line
Always stay humble and kind"

Our world needs these reminders right now. It’s been a year of fighting hard on every realm of the earthly experience, illuminating the wide range of adversities people endure each day. Financial or physical, mental or emotional, equality or inclusion, we all have our wars to wage.

But in the quiet moments, between the frays, I hope that we can lean into the opportunities for individual and planetary growth hidden in these courageous battles. To expand our consciousness and realize that our common ground within it all, is the struggle to be human, live fully, and feel safe.   

Wishing you all the best for the year ahead.  May it bring love, laughter and light back to our world.