What we’ve learned from the last several years seems to be that we value social connections and also the freedom to move around, more than we ever used to.
And I think a lot of us learned a new skill or two as a result of being isolated. We had to look inward and when we did we became inventive and productive. I did an online guitar class ($27) that was the best money I’ve spent in a long time. The pleasure I get from exploring with my new-found knowledge is priceless to me. I’ve played for 40 years, but I only knew about 20% of what my guitar was capable of. Now, less than a year later, more like 75%. I unlocked a whole new part of playing. It’s knowledge I wish I had learned far sooner – but I’m grateful in truckloads to know it now, looking forward to my free time in the years ahead.
I’m also finding inspiration for painting in places closer to my home. This is my neighbor Vivian, standing in sunlight in my backyard. Since travel has become a hassle I’m going slower, looking more closely on walks and staying local – there is so much to see by looking closer.
By this time next year, what will we do better? Pick one thing. Anything. Take a class, watch a tutorial on YouTube. TED Talks are often insightful and I get inspired, amazed (and overwhelmed) on Pinterest. That’s the promise of new possibilities. They are limitless. So take a risk, or a new approach.
Be grateful, stay curious!
