THIS YEAR HAS BEEN ONE OF CHANGE AND HOPE, TOO

2020 was a year that completely rewrote the rules. Within just a few months, a global pandemic, massive unemployment, school closures, major health care decisions of elected officials and images of empty metropolitan streets shook our sense of security. Many researchers say that 2020 will become a blur for most of us, and only time will tell how this period is remembered and written about in history books.

Right now, the moments of each day feel unforgettable. As the mother of a young son, I often ref lect on this year’s effect on my child and on children worldwide. I recently glanced at one of his school writing prompts, “What is your hope for the future?” Like I believe most children growing up in 2020 would say, his response included an end to COVID-19, and his desire to see his cousins in person once again.

As I read his words, my heart sank, thinking of the loss, sadness and pain this year has brought. Some days, it is tough to find rays of light. Yet as I think about how I want to remember

2020, my wish is that

I never forget that this year has also been a year of change and hope.

In 2020, we witnessed nationwide protests focused on the unrelenting and pernicious pain of racism that brought so many people into a new kind of awareness. This year, an advanced society that believes in change gave rise to a new generation of activists and changemakers.

Amid the turmoil, honest and emotional conversations transpired. Etched in my memory are the many long walks I took with my son, holding hands as we discussed events, both current and past, as well as race relations. I will remember that we signed petitions, wrote letters, called our representatives, and marched in the streets calling for justice and equality.

I will never forget how, despite the weight of our current reality, my son never gave in to negativity. Still, I can see him thoughtfully create signs to carry during marches and protests, and I can hear him ask me “What’s next?” in his matter-of-fact way when we finished. Instead of disillusionment or deception, the difficult conversations that 2020 forced us to have inspired him, giving him the tools to name racism, colorism and discrimination, and the courage to call them out. His determination and resilience give me hope for the future, and I believe it is indicative of a new generation that is committed to equity at every level of society.

Out of this blur of social and political unrest, I will carry with me the hope that the collective struggles we experienced will act as a springboard to something different and better for all of us. I will remember that we learned how to be a wiser and more compassionate society despite the many difficulties we faced.

I often reflect on this year’s effect on my child and those worldwide.

Maldonado