20 Things I Learned in 2020

20. Perspective is everything. Here’s looking at you, Hunter Pinke. This guy has has inspired me so much. If you don’t know about his story, check out this article.

People say you’re going to have a bad day. I mean no disrespect to them, but I just disagree with it. I’m not going to have a bad day. I have tough days. But no bad days, because every day from now on is a day that I don’t take for granted. You know, I was in a situation where all of my days could’ve been taken away from me, so I’m no longer a glass half full or glass half empty. I’m just glad I’ve got a glass.

Hunter Pinke, Grand Forks Herald

19. Don’t be your worst critic. I experienced moments where I thought I didn’t fit in, didn’t belong, and didn’t deserve to be there. Those were all lies. If you’re given an opportunity even (and especially!) if you feel out of your league, use it to grow, develop, and learn. And make those voices in your head STFU.

18. Travel Channel’s programming is dedicated to paranormal shows, not travel. I spent a lot of time at home with just Mischa in 2020. We watched a lot of TV. Don’t count on Travel Channel to plan your next trip.

17. Be resilient. I was inspired by the people who were able to adapt and overcome this year. The government shut down your business? You readjusted, changed strategies, and survived. Emulate those people.

16. Difficult times can also be beautiful times. Even in the darkness of 2020, there moments I wouldn’t change for anything. My mom and I spent a lot of time together as she helped me through chemo. I wouldn’t give that up for anything.

15. People believe in conspiracy theories more than I thought. “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and to remove all doubt.” Abraham Lincoln.

14. How to cook steak. Literally, I learned how to cook steak this year. I’ve mastered the reverse-sear method and it’s basically life.

13. You can’t make new old friends. Through all the chaos of this year, I’ve often been reminded of this saying. New friends are great, but sometimes an old friendship fits the bill.

12. There are no rules. We’re all just making this up as we go along. Stop imposing fake rules on your life.

11. No one loves you like your mom does. I think that explains itself.

10. Our country is bitterly divided. We’ve created monsters out of our political enemies. And I don’t know how we fix it.

9. Everyone handles tragedy and grief differently. Some people shower you with gifts. Some become caretakers. And some can’t handle it. They can’t talk about it and they can’t face it. Don’t be too hard on them; it’s love that stops them.

8. Eating at a restaurant is about more than food. I haven’t eaten out since February. I miss it.

7. Watching your brother become a daddy is one of life’s highlights. My brother and sister-in-law welcomed a baby girl this summer. She has my brother wrapped around her finger. And it’s been one of the most amazing things to witness.

6. Chemo nurses are heroes. Trust me. They’re some of the most amazing people on Earth.

5. Horseradish sauce is the best condiment. Don’t try to argue with me unless you’ve had it on a variety of meat.

4. You shouldn’t have to fight cancer and your health-insurance company at the same time. We can do better than this. I don’t have the answers, but I know it isn’t this.

3. Sometimes resting is productive. I hate those days when you feel unproductive and lazy. But we all need rest. And rest is productive!

2. We need leaders. Not everyone is equipped for leadership. If you are, stand up when the world and your community needs you.

1. God is good. I went through a journey of faith this year. It was surprising, difficult, and welcome.