It’s over. 2020 is behind us. A new year has begun and we all have high hopes for it to be a good one. Last year brought with it so many challenges and forced us to look at not just ourselves but our part in our communities. Some people do not see how they should be concerned with this, their neighbourhood, indeed their country. But let us forget about them, nothing you can say or do gets through to those who remain closed in their vision for the world.
I like to remain positive and although I had my struggles, including going for a Covid-19 test and waiting a week for the results, which I found terrifying as I have heart issues, I consoled myself that I had many blessings in life.
As the year closed I thought about the small stuff, the little steps that brought me joy, that kept me ticking over until I felt back in control because I had allowed the virus to control, to dominate my thoughts and so drain my energy. Even when it came to connecting with you, dear friends, I had no inclination, I thought what have I to share?
Like I said, I remembered my blessings, my small triumphs in writing and I took back the wheel and once more I was in the driving seat. My family, my grand-children whom I’ve not seen in over a year, my health, my home: all well and safe, I am grateful.
My writing life: I had memory pieces plus short stories published in Ireland’s Own, an iconic Irish magazine that travels far and wide. I completed my Masters in Creative Writing with the University of Limerick and graduated. My second novel, Don’t Call Me Mum, was released in paperback. I completed a novel that was waiting for over a year to end its tale. I got two other projects edited and completed and ready to be released into the world. Which means I shall be on a cover hunt! Another published story requested by my local paper for Christmas was the final blessing for 2020 in relation to my writing.
Whether its last year, or yesterday, don’t lose heart. Breathe. Think of what’s good in life. Did you see the stars last night? Did you hear a child’s laughter? Did you share a chat with someone? Did you get to write that blog post that keeps bugging you or think of an idea for your next story? Finish a paragraph that you struggled with? If so, then you are doing well. I wish you all the blessings you wish for yourself. Together we are strong.
If you wish to read my novel, Don’t Call Me Mum, the link follows, https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dont-Call-Mum-Mary-Bradford/dp/B08MMT3JJK/
Mary T Bradford 