Well, what can we say about 2020? I think it's insensitive at best to try and find high points in what was a monumentally bad year for so many people in our world. We sit with you in your grief if you lost someone dear to you, and we sit with you in your fear if you lost your income. I’m going to list resources at the end of this post in case you need to reach out for help.
We burrowed into our network of family, friends, and colleagues in 2020 because we needed social and emotional connections. These gatherings were virtual but still so precious and so necessary. I'm hit in the heart when I hear Elton John sing in Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters, "I thank the Lord for the people I have found." I hope you've found your people. If you haven't, don't stop trying because they're out there.
2021...it's finally here! We've all been waiting for it, and it's on us to dig deep and do our best to reach out and help each other up. Ready? If you can, support your local food banks and businesses. Buy fair trade or other ethically-sourced products. Keep masking and get the vaccine when it's your turn. LET'S DO THIS.
Food Resources
USDA National Hunger Hotline (866-348-6479)
Feeding America (800-771-2303)
Mental Health Resources
National Suicide Prevention Hotline (800-273-8255)
Disaster Distress Hotline (800-985-5990) (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services)
Resources for Families and Teenagers
Domestic Violence Resources
Call 911 if you are in immediate danger
U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233)
National Network to End Domestic Violence
Eldercare Resources
Meals on Wheels (888-998-6325)
U.S. Administration on Aging Eldercare Locator (800-677-1116)
Find Local Medicare Help with State Health Insurance Assistance Programs