By: Eva Sanders, Contributing Writer
This year has been a crazy one. Not only has there been a global pandemic, which currently still traps the globe, but many other tragedies have also taken place throughout the course of 2020.
The year 2020 began with the infamous Australian bushfires, which was unfortunately followed by a tragic helicopter accident in January that killed basketball legend Kobe Bryant, his daughter, and seven others. 2020 would also see airplane crashes in Iran and Pakistan, the murder of George Floyd in Minnesota, and explosions in Beirut, Lebanon. Throughout all of this, the United States presidential election remained a point of contention.
It is important to show gratitude for essential workers during these trying times. (Photo Credit: KVUE)
To top it all off, the year still is not over. Many more unfortunate events could take place before the beginning of 2021.
With the world in shambles, it can be a struggle to maintain a positive outlook on the future. Showing appreciation to loved ones, after everything that’s happened so far, can really make a difference.
Meeting with friends and family in-person can be risky, so simply checking in with family and friends over the internet can make their day. Showing gratitude to loved ones includes prioritizing their safety. For example, sending loved ones gifts can be a great way to show love and gratitude.
Certain family members may appreciate traditional hangouts, rather than those that take place online. Practicing social distancing and enforcing mask-wearing can help limit risks to their health when meeting in-person.
College students are likely to feel isolated during these times. Extroverted students struggle with social distancing policies more than introverted students. Without having a wide circle of friends around, extroverts may find themselves frustrated, bored, or even depressed. It can be difficult to maintain an attitude of gratitude when placed in complicated situations.
Checking in with friends via a video-conferencing app like Zoom is a great way to show gratitude and appreciation for them. (Photo Credit: Bro Bible)
Despite the unfortunate circumstances, there’s still much to be grateful for. As previously mentioned, many things can still be done to show both friends and family gratitude while keeping them safe.
The opportunity to attend college in a global pandemic is definitely something to be grateful for. Professors who have been working tirelessly this semester are demonstrating complete selflessness and deserve thanks.
Professors are also struggling without being able to meet face-to-face with students. Seeing many blank screens on Zoom can make them feel lonely and unappreciated. Simple actions such as being attentive in class, sending emails with kind words, and joining additional meetings professors host will likely brighten their day.
How can you show gratitude for others today? (Photo Credit: Your Positive Oasis)
Essential workers deserve gratitude from everyone. Essential workers are risking their lives, for complete strangers, every day. Without these brave workers, the impacts of the pandemic would be much worse.
Simple acts of gratitude really can make an essential worker’s day. There are a multitude of easy ways to thank those who are protecting the community. Writing a kind message in chalk on the driveway will make the delivery man smile. Catering doughnuts or pizza to a team of nurses is bound to motivate them to keep going. Essential workers do not expect extravagant gifts from the general population for their services, but a simple act of kindness can better their days.
In conclusion, 2020 hasn’t been the best year, but if we stick together as a nation, we may be able to end this year on a better note.
