Wonderings 16 What Events Were Memorable from 2021?
The year 2020 was marked by the beginning of the pandemic, and shut downs. I remember a joke from the beginning of 2021 talking about what to look forward to - actually, I don't remember it exactly, but it was something like: 2020 was terrible, then 2021 (twenty-twenty won), and 2022 (twenty-twenty too). Here we are at the end of 2021, getting to look back at what won for us. What do we remember from 2021? What do we look forward to in 2022?
In pandemic news we got vaccines and better treatments. Although there were more deaths and people with long term problems from the COVID virus, we found better ways to be safe from it - and be in person again.
The pandemic wasn't the only thing that happened this past year. At B'nai Zion we had some people who joined our congregation, and some who moved away. We had a few deaths, but we also had births, and Bar/Bat Mitzvah and Confirmation celebrations. We had weddings, and holidays. We got to be creative about worshiping online - but also in-person again.
I started 2021 by breaking my wrist, and ended it by breaking my nose. Obviously one of my personal resolutions is to stop breaking bones. I also am starting the year by teaching more classes - for adults and children.
This week I am wondering: What special events were especially memorable that occurred at B'nai Zion* and/or in your life in 2021? What are your special memories from this past year - and what do you hope to do this coming year?
*When I say "at" B'nai Zion, it does not have to be at the building. It also does not have to be something that we scheduled for B'nai Zion. For example, it may be that you stayed in touch with other congregants, or celebrated with your family.
I have truly enjoyed getting to hear from people about these "Wonderings." You are always welcome to respond to any of the questions I have asked by calling or emailing, no matter how long ago the question was originally posed. You can also choose to keep your replies totally private, and not be posted on the Responses page. I always try to remove personal / identifying details when I do post the replies.
I wish you a wonderful and healthy 2022 - and look forward to all the ways that 2022 can be a "win" for us.
Return to Wonderings main page: CLICK HERE
Responses:
2021? 2021? When was that?......I missed it. [J]
An event that happened that was very profound was the loss of my little dog. It was unexpected and such a shock, and she is very much missed. I also became fully aware of the negative impact Covid and the pandemic has had on students. Many have not completed any studies for over a year and it is very obvious. Some are very angry and have no respect for themselves and others. At school, we have discussed this frequently and it is not just local, but appears to be nationwide. I, also in 2021, became more involved in activities at shul, like I used to do in the past. I lost close friends and family and other relations all within a short span and I must admit, I was angry at G-d, and did not understand. So, I sat out. I believe we need to be involved and actively participate and our burdens will be made lighter (at least that is my experience). Another special memory was completing art projects and have them displayed in an exhibition. In 2022, I look forward to seeing where our Jewish War Veterans post goes or what we can participate in, even if it is very small, just so others know we do have a Jewish presence among veterans. I also look forward to participating in a project, such as perhaps cleaning the headstones at the cemeteries, and I especially look forward to becoming a more involved citizen and B'nai Zion member. [E]