The year 2020 revealed people’s true selves more than ever. It was a time when many, including myself, took a hard look at our lives and the people in them. Juggling remote work, online schooling, and health concerns during a global crisis left little room for negativity, including troublesome relationships.
In moments of crisis, individuals often display their true character. Thus, 2020 underscored the distinction between being nice and being genuinely good. Some individuals who seemed pleasant turned out to harbor troubling views, like those who fervently demanded school reopenings while disregarding the health risks involved.
This realization has been nothing short of traumatic. Friends of my children revealed themselves as individuals who would go to great lengths to push for policies that endanger others. People who claimed to uphold strong moral values supported leaders whose actions contradicted those principles. It was disheartening to see acquaintances I once respected align themselves with harmful ideologies.
I’ve always believed in the inherent goodness of people, but this past year made me reconsider that notion. I tend to trust others and offer grace during challenging times, but the events of the last year have tested my limits. It’s become increasingly clear that I have little patience for selfishness.
Throughout the past year, I’ve been deliberate about the company I keep. While some friendships have grown stronger, others have faded. I’ve reconnected with old acquaintances over shared values, despite not being close in the past. Conversely, I’ve unfollowed countless individuals whose beliefs don’t resonate with mine.
Now, as we see a glimmer of hope on the horizon, the question arises: what do we do about the relationships that have frayed? Can we overlook the truths we’ve uncovered? Personally, I’m not sure if I want to. This isn’t merely a matter of differing opinions; it’s a clash of fundamental values. I’m not interested in cultivating relationships that don’t align with my beliefs.
Sure, we can maintain a cordial demeanor during school drop-offs or at social gatherings. We might exchange pleasantries and engage in small talk. With time, tensions may ease. However, the truths we’ve come to learn remain etched in our memories.
While I believe in the potential for personal growth, and I try not to cut people off completely, some actions—like endorsing harmful policies—set a high bar for forgiveness. I hold onto a sliver of hope, but I’m not counting on a transformation.
Ultimately, 2020 highlighted the reality we can’t ignore: the true colors people revealed during this time cannot be unseen.
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Summary:
The pandemic has forced many to reevaluate their relationships, revealing true character and values. While some friendships have strengthened, others have faltered due to conflicting beliefs. As life begins to normalize, the challenge lies in navigating these altered connections, recognizing that some truths are permanent and may forever change the dynamics of our relationships.
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