On the Bright Side of 2021

While millions remain locked down in basements and cubby-hole home offices, there is still a bright side that many Americans may have overlooked during the Coronavirus Pandemic.

1. We don’t live in Iraq or China where Christianity is illegal and you risk losing your freedom if you read a Bible out loud.

2. Americans are first in line for a vaccine. Because our scientists invented an effective vaccine first , our nation can afford to produce large quantities of every good candidate whether it is ultimately approved or not.

3. Our generally inept government is starting to move out the vaccines more effectively.

4. Most of us have more “free money” headed our way from the government gift purse. I wish I wanted something to spend the $1,200 my wife and I just got in the mail. I’m happy I don’t need a government stimulus.

5. There are ultra-low interest rates for young couples to buy homes, cars, appliances, or second homes in Vail. (Fortunately, we don’t borrow money.)

6. Energy is cheap, dirt cheap. Use all you can as quickly as you can because this gift won’t last long.

7. They say pent-up customer demand is about to be unleashed and people will rush out to eat and buy unnecessary stuff they don’t really need. We all want our favorite little cafes and eclectic shops to survive and thrive.

8. Later this year, we will be vaccinated and free to see friends, attend church, and shop.

9. No matter how bad the Coronavirus seems, “This too shall end.”

Food for thought— On a cold 12 degree morning from where I write in the New Mexico mountains, I’ve decided to share some ways to improve your life and get out of the Covid dulldrums.

Turn off the news. Turn it off completely.

Remember that politics is not life, life is not politics.

Be thankful. Be happy you don’t live on top of one another in expensive, cramped cities like New York where viruses eagerly roam from subway to bus to elevators and back.

Create an inner life of peace and strengthen your relationship with God, nature, and yourself.

Plan and prepare for a time when you’ll be free to travel and make it for the lost year of our lives.

Stop feeling sorry for yourself.

Forget Washington, they’ve forgotten us long ago.

Make a “bucket list” of all the things you are longing to do when Covid ends. Begin planning, thinking, researching, and enjoying your plans.