If there’s one takeaway from COVID-19, it’s how intricately we are connected in life through a shared human experience.
As December draws to a close, here are 3 reflective questions that are answered by 6 expats in different countries around the world. Their experiences, values, and lessons as global citizens paint a clear picture of the depths of our interconnectedness.
How can you relate?
Question 1:
What experiences of 2020 will you always remember?
At a personal level, I witnessed the development of my 2 last children…which is a joy and blessing that compensates all the negative things going on.
Luigi, living in USA
Unemployment.
Werner, living in USA
Being in complete lockdown for 65 days, when I was alone in my 600 square foot apartment, was memorable because of how challenging it was. Not something I ever wish to do again.
Sarah, living in Spain
The joy of a run after 3 months (of lockdown).
Heather, living in Spain
Zoom for school, exercising, game nights, and conversation; learning how to cook (and participating in) writing club; (attending the high school) graduation in pajamas…They were all unique to 2020.
Kevin, living in Argentina
Resilience, patience and creativity. Resilience because of what the entire world is going through, patience because it is mainly out of our control, and creativity because of how people found ways to reinvent themselves.
Aymara, living in China
Question 2:
What value have you found in this year of living abroad, COVID and all?
Equality at home.
Heather, Spain
Appreciation for family moments that will not happen again. (I’m grateful to have) a job, security, and insurance but most of all to have the technology, which kept us closer.
Aymara, China
Hope.
Werner, USA
From now on, I’m (staying close to) people with integrity.
Luigi, USA
Your tribe is always with you, no matter how far away they may be.
Sarah, Spain
A better understanding how other countries approach the crisis.
Kevin, Argentina
Question 3:
What lessons have you learned in 2020 that you hope to carry with you into the future?
People come first…there is no amount of work, time, or money that can bring them back. So enjoy them.
Luigi, USA
Flexibility is key. Keep it simple.
Heather, Spain
The only truth in life is family and friends, as love comes and goes.
Werner, USA
Empathy. Everyone handles things in different ways.
Kevin, Argentina
Patience, kindness, and self-care.
Aymara, China
Resilience. Actively go after what you want in this life.
Sarah, Spain
As 2020 draws to a close, please join in these reflections, wherever in the world you may be. May you cherish the positive, release the negative, and remember the value of the year as we carry our learnings into the future.