My word for 2021 is shift. Like everyone I know, I’ve learned a lot, since this time last year. One of the biggest things I’ve learned is that change and uncertainty just are. Since I’m not in control of much more than which yoga pants, Zoom-appropriate top, and slippers I’ll wear each day, I needed to figure out how I could deal with all the change and uncertainty. That’s where shifting comes in.

For me, shifts involve acceptance and adjustment. I know I don’t have much control, but I have unlimited choices. I can shift. 

Some of my recent shifts have been pretty significant. Some have been tiny. Some haven’t happened, yet. And I’m sure I’ll make a lot of shifts I can’t even imagine

In my faith tradition, today is Easter Sunday. Alleluia!

Even if I didn’t consider myself Christian, or any kind of person of faith in something bigger than myself, I’d be celebrating the signs of hope and resurrection I’m seeing lately.

Here in southeastern North Carolina, azaleas and dogwoods are blooming. And hydrangeas are showing a lot of promise. Overall, COVID a numbers seem to be declining. A lot of people are being vaccinated. Some people are hugging and even planning vacations. And people are talking about some of the old ‘normal things’ they’re not sure they want to return to.

There’s still plenty of doom, despair, and agony, too.

For me, that’s where the shift is happening. If I haven’t learned anything in these pandemic months, it’s that hope and resurrection are always present in the midst of doom, despair, and agony. I just need to remember to notice and honor them, even when I can’t see the azaleas, dogwoods, or Paschal candle.

What kinds of shifts have you experienced lately?