An Unexpected series of events 

2020… a pretty tough and difficult year for all us. Murders, elections, protests, natural disasters, explosions and on top of everything a pandemic. Because of all that was mentioned before, we had to get used to new ideas, for many of us our life did had a 360 degree spin. Online school started, it was a challenge but, at the end of the day it was just another rock we got to move all together that was blocking our road, sad times because we couldn’t see our friends and families, the 6 feet apart deal, masks, the death toll, no gatherings, economy failing. My idea today is not to mention what everyone is used to mentioning… the dark side of the story, instead, the brighter one.

2020 has been a teacher, an eye opener for many of us, new opportunities, lifestyles, beliefs. Thanks to this year, I’ve become a more thankful girl. I appreciate everyday things that we took for granted, since we thought they were here for us forever… for example; that rush of excitement of the first day of school, being in a class physically with our friends and teachers, that big smile in our faces when our directors waved us in the morning, getting ready to go out, lunches with my relatives, apart from all those cases, we should mostly be thankful for the TIME we have. Add to that, I thank God for giving me the blessing to have a roof, water, food on the table, education, AC, and a bed. Finally and most importantly, my health, this is all that really matters, and I’m so grateful that my family, friends, loved ones, teachers and myself are all alive and healthy. I can’t even get myself to think how devastated some may feel since so many have lost relatives and people they loved. I take this opportunity to say how sad I am for anyone who already went through this.

During the Christmas holiday I reflected on the importance we give to many material things, I think 2020 proved ourselves that at the end much of it is not necessary. As my teacher, Mr. Edwin (Character ED.) asked us: “if this was your last Christmas what would you give to the 3 most important people in your life?” Please reflect on that, I’m pretty sure you are not going to mention the last PS5, or the new Louis Vuitton Bag, but instead maybe a trip around the world, more gatherings, good health, and behind those wishes, there is a common theme: time. I really mean it, enjoy those little times you have, be thankful, go and tell that person you love that you are extremely glad they are here with you. The gift of time, give time, make time. 

This new year will be brighter as we walk holding God’s hand, things will get better, but, you also need to be part of it… set yourself new goals, and ideas. Stop accusing 2020 of being the worst year of your life and instead say; “yes, 2020 was pretty tough and was filled with an unexpected series of events, but it taught me one of the most important lessons of my life, don’t take those things for granted, be grateful, make the best out of your life, and each day you wake up, thank God for your health and for allowing you to live a new day in this world”. 

My dear Ashton Community, my hope is that we are going to be reunited soon, in the meantime keep reflecting on what we learned from 2020, take care of yourself, and be with your loved ones, as long as you can!!!

2020, an unexpected series of events but with a powerful message!

-Maria Jose Caminero 10thA