My New Year’s Letter To You

It’s the 31st, and I’m sure you’re relieved to have made it out of this year somehow. Everything that’s happened still feels surreal, like it’s all a Black Mirror episode written by a seriously disturbed scriptwriter. One way or another, everyone has gone through their own hurdles this year. By everyone, I don’t just mean you, I mean your friends, your family members — all of the people around you.

I don’t need to write much to describe how horrible prolonged isolation has been for you, because I’m sure you know that the best. If you’re studying, I’m sure it’s been difficult to deal with the blurred lines between home and school. If you’re an adult, I’m sure the bills haven’t been exactly a delight to handle, nor is it easy to deal with everything while trying to be there for the young under your care. This year has been a fatal mix of emotions that can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to let those feelings consume you.

Nevertheless, I want to say that I’m proud of you for making it this far. Never mind the things you couldn’t do, or the things you regret you did, I’m glad that you’re still fighting, in your own way, for your own goals. I don’t think anyone is coming out of this year scot-free of anxiety, loss, regret or a hundred other painful emotions. Everyone is just doing what they have to do to survive, and that’s just the way things are.

I hope you take care of yourself, and give yourself the understanding and patience you would give a close friend. It doesn’t matter if things don’t go according to plan, they never really do. What’s important is that you’re alive, and breathing and that makes all the difference. Don’t sell yourself short, and be sure to treat yourself with kindness. You’re gonna be spending a lifetime with yourself, you know. Personally, that’s why I believe that learning how to enjoy your own company is the key to a happy life.

Although, it goes without saying, that cherishing your loved ones is just as important. Grief and loss are painful, it’d be a lie to say otherwise. It’s also true, though, that moments like these remind us of how precious time is. I hope that while you take care of your own needs, you don’t forget to be kind to those around you as well. Like I said, everyone’s going through something. A small gesture can make all the difference.

Instead of making a long list of New Year’s resolutions about things you don’t actually care about, I hope you take the time to reflect on what’s important to you. Personally, I only have one on mine — live. I’m going to live as someone who’s honest about who I am, and be with the people I love the most. I’m going to learn how to forgive myself, and let go of things that keep me from moving forward. I hope, with all of my heart, that you do too.

All the love, and the happiest new year to you,

Cass