What I am thankful for in 2020

It’s the last Monday of 2020 and it will be the New Year in four days. I am certain most of us can’t wait for this year to be over and done with. With many vaccines seemingly available by next year, people are hopeful that the COVID-19 virus will soon be a thing of the past and the whole world can wake up from this dreadful nightmare and get our lives back to normal. But despite the hardships this pandemic caused, I’d still like to end this year with a grateful heart and ask myself, what am I grateful for?

1. I am grateful that no one in my family got infected with the virus. Most of all, I am very grateful that I did not get infected despite going to work every day, doing errands like grocery shopping and running to the bank. I’ve had three PCR tests and numerous antigen tests and thankfully, the results are always negative. I can’t emphasize enough that the virus is still out there, and that we should still practice basic health protocols: Wear a mask and face shield, wash our hands constantly, avoid crowded places and maintain physical distancing. I strongly believe that for as long as we practice these protocols, we should be okay. After all, we also have to learn to co-exist with the virus. We cannot afford to stay locked in our homes forever.

2. I am grateful that I have work. When ABS-CBN was shut down, I cannot deny that I became anxious. Although there was a separation package, I couldn’t help but worry what would happen if I didn’t find work soon if my savings were depleted. Thankfully, Albee Benitez took a chance and offered many displaced ABS-CBN employees, myself included, an opportunity to work for his company Brighlight Productions when he signed a block time agreement with TV5. I believe that for as long as we are not afraid to work and are not choosy, work will never be elusive. I am grateful to The Philippine STAR for this space, which allows me to share my thoughts, opinions, likes and dislikes with you, dear readers every week.

3. I am grateful to my children and helpers. They kept me company and sane throughout the year. Although we got on each other’s nerves many times, I guess that was inevitable considering we were together 24/7.

4. I am grateful to ALL the courier drivers: LalaMove, Mr. Speedy, Grab, etc. Can you imagine being in a pandemic without them? The next time you order food or send a package, tip your driver generously!

5. Lastly, I am grateful to all our front liners. These include all the medical practitioners, health care workers, soldiers, policemen, news reporters, restaurant workers, pharmacists, and everyone else who risked life and limb every day to bring us essential supplies and services. I give you all my heartfelt thanks for all your selfless acts of love and dedicated service. May your tribe increase a thousandfold.

Instead of writing New Year’s resolutions, let’s instead list the things we are grateful for. After all, a grateful heart is a happy heart, and we could certainly all use lots of happiness!

From my family to yours, I wish you all a blessed and safe 2021!