Remembering and Celebrating One Another

Lock downs, missing loved ones, fear of contracting COVID, overeating and under exercising, pressures from work, and families in one house all day in one another’s way. 2020 has been a year that we will never forget. I find that what I miss the most are all the small celebrations I take for granted such as birthday parties, luncheons sharing an accomplishment, and seeing friends at a charity event.

Last night I witnessed so much joy in the celebration of my father-in-law’s 70^th birthday. My wife had collected photographs from different parts of Ken’s life and compiled a short powerpoint presentation. She found a song that represented the style of music he liked, meaningful lyrics and embedded the music before we converted the presentation to a short video.

My mother-in-law invited Ken’s friends from both past and present to a zoom birthday call. Many of those in their 70’s are retired and using zoom was a tedious process for them. We were pleased that all got on the call and learned the system fairly quickly dispelling all the myths that old dogs can’t learn new tricks!

Now, I have been on family zoom calls before and found that they certainly didn’t replace the face-to-face small celebrations of the pre-COVID era. But, last night something was different. Perhaps, it was that the call had a little bit of structure like an orchestrated work-related event? Perhaps, it was the smiles and obvious joy shared amongst folks in their 70’s who seemed genuinely thrilled to see one another? Perhaps, it was that I had a little part in bringing the joy to so many folks on the call? Whatever the reason, it truly was entertaining, interesting, and obviously appreciated.

What have I learned?

• Make the time to celebrate.
• Recognize the achievements and milestones of our friends, family, and colleagues.
• Celebrate the small stuff.

We stay connected to our phones, email, and social media all day. Habitually checking our devices makes us feel busy but leaves us still wanting and needing human connection. Electronics certainly do not substitute for human contact. Celebrating as a family, a work team or an organization helps build and deepen relationships among group members. Celebrations can come in all shapes and sizes and are only limited by your creativity. So, take a chance and create a get-together. You won’t regret taking the time to remember and celebrate those that you miss most!  

Toni Bear, Ed.D.