In the New Year, I Will Focus on What Is True

2020 is almost at an end. In a few weeks, we will celebrate the holiday season, and before we know it, 2021 will be upon us. The past year was mostly filled with bad news and unexpected events, and the turmoil caused by COVID-19 has impacted many people around the world.

We have gone through the pain of losing loved ones, suffered the consequences of being cut off from society during lockdown, and experienced the fear of falling ill or infecting our loved ones. We have all changed in our own ways. We have also learned to adapt and function within the boundaries of our present environment. We are resilient, after all.

As a caregiver to my husband, who was diagnosed with hereditary amyloidosis in 2013, 2020 has been an emotional roller coaster ride. I have been coming to terms with my husband’s declining health while dealing with the pain of missing my elderly parents and siblings who live overseas.

I can handle my present surroundings, but my inability to be close to my loved ones who are so far away makes 2020 even more wretched. Technology such as FaceTime and phone calls helps in times like these, but nothing can ever replace the warmth of being next to someone you care about.

Nonetheless, I will prepare to usher in the new year by shaking off the residue of the old year. I will reconnect with the peace that comes from believing this world will right itself. We are all meant to go through a reset phase, and soon, what needs to be fixed will be fixed, and life will carry on. I just need to have faith. The worry of what may or may not happen will only result in anxiety and unrest. I definitely have had enough of woebegone thoughts.

So, come 2021, I will focus on what is true, noble, authentic, beautiful, and important. I will recalibrate myself and recommit to my intention of always doing my best. I will be the best carer and wife to my husband, the best mother to my children, the best daughter to my parents, the best sister to my siblings, and the best friend to my peers. I will strive to leave a lasting, positive legacy for those around me. I choose to radiate hope and not forget the person God made me to be.

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“This is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never — in nothing, great or small, large or petty — never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.” – Winston Churchill

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Note: FAP News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of FAP News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to familial amyloid polyneuropathy.