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A big part of December-ing is to look back at the year gone by. Lessons learnt, and good habits picked up. It's also a reckoning of sorts. Losses to be accounted for, and changes to be dealt with. But 2021 has been unique in its capacity for turning the world on its head - we're all dealing with grief and exhaustion in our own way. So, I thought maybe it's time to do something different this year. Maybe, it's time to do an inventory of joy.
A caveat, though. Your list will look different, and indeed, I hope that by the end of this essay you’ll be off to make your own. This list might also seem inconsequential at some times. Especially compared to most people’s end-of-the-year list of achievements, filled with important life milestones. And while I am delighted for them; I think if there’s anything that 2021 has taught us, it’s to be thankful for the small moments that make a life. Things are too uncertain to always be wishing that the grass is greener on the other side anyway, right?
So, here in no particular order is my list of silver linings.
Watching a cloud in a blue sky. I live in Delhi, so blue skies are as rare for me as clean air. But there is something about witnessing a white, fluffy cloud in a bright blue sky and becoming blindingly aware of your own insignificance. You are a speck on a speck in the Universe. So why take yourself – or anything, really – that seriously?
That chortling giggle that escapes you when a friend cracks a joke only you’ll get. It can be on Whatsapp, on a Zoom call, or in person. The warmth that friends – especially friends that see you for who you are and still are there for you – bring to your life is unparalleled. And precious.
That sigh of contentment after you read a beautifully written book or poem. Or watch a perfect film. If it wasn’t apparent to us before, 2021 made it crystal clear. Art exists to make us feel less lonely. Seeing your own experience reflected in a piece of art, and by extension another human being, is an exhilarating experience. It allows you to forget your sorrows for a moment, and know that when you need it, there is a sea of wisdom and solidarity to draw from. And let’s be real: you’re not alone, is the message we all needed to get through this year.
Knowing that you are loved. Allow me the indulgence of a cliche, dear reader, but love really makes the world go round. It can be your family (chosen or found), friends, partner, animals, or siblings – the knowledge that you are deeply loved and cared for can act as fortitude in the deepest of crises. An anchor in a storm. (Sorry I am done with the cliches now.)
You are alive. As you are reading this, your breath is in its steady rhythms, your heart is beating, your mind is thinking. You are a marvel. And you are alive. What greater joy is there?
That’s it from me. Write to me your own list by hitting “Reply” to this email. I will be reading, and replying to all your emails. Because even though I didn’t mention it in this list, hearing from you – our Vitamin Stree community – is something that brings us all great joy.
Love,
Maanvi
Editorial Lead
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