Amid the global pandemic, broken economies, limping trade markets and other sorts of phantoms, you may find it difficult to identify something to be proud of. 2020 has been tough, yes! I believe you could be one of those impatiently waiting for the year to end, or for things to be back to normal. A certain friend of mine called me a week ago and his opening was, “Moyiti, is there anything to be positive about 2020 on your side?” He asked. Jokingly, he triggered me to think of what I am grateful for amidst the challenges. You could find yourself in the same state where your wins are almost invisible. Yet, there is actually what to be grateful for and that is; -

Life as a gift and proof of expansion

It is very obvious that people say, “I am grateful for my life.” Yet life in itself is a total proof that you can be someone bigger and better tomorrow. Have you ever critically thought about human growth and development from conception to maturity? Well, the human body develops from the microcellular chromosomes(Sperm and Ovum) which are in fact invisible to the normal eyes. Growth happens literally from the invisible state of your being to the visible person of good stature you are today. That’s proof enough that you are to outgrow all your current setbacks.

Health

According to the World Health Organization report on 9th September 2020, it is unfortunate 894, 893 people have lost their lives due to Covid-19. And 27,486,960 confirmed positive cases. So if you are still healthy, thank God for that because some have suffered from so many healthy impairments.

Welfare

If you can afford one meal or more in a day, pay the bill and facilitate your family in basics, then you have a reason to be grateful. By 29th June 2020, World Food Programme projections showed that the number of hungry in the countries where it operates could increase to 270 million before the year’s end – an 82% increase from before the pandemic. Leaving hunger aside, there are also homeless and stranded people across the globe.

Smile

Simple laughter, smile and a glimpse of joy may seem minor but it does wonders in life. In fact, Basajja Mivule one of the Ugandan Human rights activists and political commenters bitterly asked, “Ki ekisesa Mu Uganda? Oseeka ki munsi eno?” which directly means “what is worth laughing for in Uganda, what’s worth a smiley or gratitude. Yet I believe there are so many reasons to be grateful for in not only in Uganda but also in your life. You cannot underestimate the power of smiling or laughing because it lights up your mood and relieves stress and psychologically you effectively handle tough times. Make it a priority to always find reasons to be happy and bloom your joyful heart out.

Support system

If your support system (friends, family, and colleagues at work) is still in place, then my friend, you are good to go. This year has revealed real friends, unveiled hypocrites and proved supportive people in your social circles. On 5th May 2020, the New Vision Uganda published a story alleging that most of the men have abandoned their families. My dismay is that they proved not willing to stand firm with their loved ones in times of adversity. So if you have a support system which is relevantly present, please, appreciate them.

Being honest with you, the new normal is quite challenging, it is high time for you to readapt and accept the way things are. Consciously look for what to lit and boost your mood and morale.

Written by Daniel Moyiti