Come on 2021 – We’re Ready!

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By Patti Parish-Kaminski, Publisher

I am bundled up from head to toe in preparation for 2021.  Remember when you were little and every five years or so, a true northerner would blow into Houston?  Mother would bundle me up so that I couldn’t even put my arms down much less walk without waddling.  That’s how I feel as we embark on a new year:  bundled up prepared for the fierce, frigid foe.

I remember this time last year – fondly – as the very essence of the number 2020 had such a positive connotation.  Lisa Ann and I were exploring new ventures because our vision was – you guessed it – 2020.  Well, that didn’t work exactly as planned.  Fast forward 365 days, and here we are on the verge of 2021.  But instead of ringing in the new year with glee and anticipation, I’m leery.  I’ve been there, done that, and it didn’t work out so well.

Typically, we make resolutions this time of year, which is by definition the quality of being determined or resolute.  Well, I’m nothing if not determined to resolve to make 2021 a better year, but I’m determined with dogged preparation.  I’m going to welcome you 2021 and be hospitable about it, but there are a few things I expect from you in return.

1. I resolve to not drink both lunch and dinner on the daily if you promise to not give me more challenges that I can carry on the daily. And let me just say, my shoulders are pretty big; the Lord has confidence in me, so behave accordingly.
2. I resolve to be thankful for what I have right in the moment. What we have is always enough; we simply need to recognize it.  What I expect from you 2021 is slow, deliberate shots – time to be thankful for our circumstances – not the automatic rapid fire of an assault rifle of 2020.  Slow your roll, and give us all a minute to take cover.
3. I resolve to surround myself with like-minded people. Positivity, grace and love are contagious.  Don’t send the negative nellies my way.  You will not be pleased with the results as I resolve to convert them to my way of thinking.
4. I resolve to meet you head-on. I will stand nose to nose with you on a daily basis with the full armor of God.  I ask you to recognize your foe, and choose your battles wisely.
5. I resolve to practice compassion and grace as a part of my daily routine, except if you come for me or my tribe. Don’t start none, won’t be none.

Now, I do not want to project that I’m being negative; I’m simply being prepared and outlining my expectations of 2021.  I am a firm believer in cogent communication.  Now, I’m still going to make lemonade out of any lemons that are thrust my way.  But be forewarned – the lemonade may be a bit tart this year.  So, get out some sugar and sprinkle liberally as necessary in 2021.  Happy New Year!