2020 is the year that could have started on a promising note. After all, the order of these digits combined is like an indication of crystal-clear vision – or optimism if you will.

Instead, what the Philippines experienced as early as January were natural calamities and unpleasant news items on the forefront. And this went on until COVID19 struck in Wuhan – initially as a scare that swiftly transformed into a pandemic of worldwide proportions. And then life in the old normal stopped. Our lives were never the same again after that.

The lockdown/quarantine months followed. It tested the discipline, will power and mental strength of everyone. Up until now, the virus continues to wreak havoc everywhere. 2020 would be sadly looked at as “The Year of Dying Unceremoniously”. This is the time when we have lost count of the number of deep condolences uttered/written to those whose loved ones have started falling one by one. Truly the tearjerker of a year.

And so, I have no qualms leaving 2020 behind. The minute the clock strikes midnight, January 1, 2021 will be welcomed with unbridled joy. There is no other way but to look forward to a new chapter in life filled with hope and dreams that would propel us back to what a happy normal existence should look and feel like.

#HappyNewYear to all!

May 2021 be the start of something good. We have started picking up the pieces of whatever is left to stand up and move on. Shattered lives or not, we have survived. And we will continue to wave the flag of a triumphant spirit from hereon now.