Like your post holiday daze, the nation is exhausted from another challenging year. We desired a healthy and successful year, but with numerous domestic and foreign concerns, it seemed somewhat elusive. From the very first week of January until just a few days before Christmas, the nation weathered the storms of the capital riots and the murder of George Floyd. As we struggled with understanding, we witnessed many more mass shootings. We became weary of polarized politics, while seeking leadership capable of healing wounds and bringing us together. Perhaps the most dominating daily news was still COVID-19. As a nation, we grappled with our understanding of how to recover and move on from the deadly plague of the last 24 months. Like many other countries dealing with the vaccination issue, domestic polarization grew ominously.
The Good and the Bad in 2021
At the same time, national security concerns continued to dominate the headlines. Abundant problems from around the world required much attention from our nation and our personal mental energy. Russia and China continued their expansions. Iran rushed ahead with their nuclear program while harassing Israel. North Korean continue testing nuclear capable missiles. With the abysmal fall of Afghanistan, along with the suicide bombings and missile attacks in Iraq, U.S. foreign policy was arguably more challenging than in recent years.
On a positive note, more than eight billion COVID-19 vaccinations were administered globally, the Ever Given was freed from the Suez Canal, European electric vehicles outsold diesel, United Air Lines flew the first passenger aircraft with 100% sustainable fuel. The world’s first 3D-printed school opened in the country of Malawi, and tens of thousands Afghan refugees were resettled.
Navigating the End of Year Chaos
In many ways, end of year celebrations drain energy levels, leaving many craving a mini vacation. For many, the tradition is to joyously navigate the holiday season, while afterwards feel exhausted and need time to recover. Full recuperation will probably not happen, as most will make their resolutions and head back to work – desiring to make great things happen during the new year.
Regardless of how exhausted Americans are as individuals or as a nation, there is no doubt we will rise to the occasion and take on the next momentous efforts. We will deal with disasters, tough adversaries, sickness, and numerous domestic challenges. When under the gun, Americans will rise to the occasion. And that is what we will do in 2022. The security risks will bubble up, but we’ll continue to work together to meet the challenges. Enjoy the remaining hours of 2021 before heading back into the melee.
