It was the 31st of December 2019 when, as had been done so many times before

we gathered excitedly to usher in a brand new year once more

With 2020 fast approaching we lit a bonfire and sang Auld Lang Syne

We recalled and reminisced the year that was as we sipped on champagne and wine

But little did we know as we welcomed 2020 what it would really have in store

It’s a year to the day when as tradition has it we reflect yet again on the year that’s gone before

We remember how the world was visited by a pandemic of epic proportions that wrecked havoc

It tragically took lives, brought travel to a halt, at home many of us stayed stuck

Social distancing, hand sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces and places became the norm

We used a plethora of online technology platforms to keep connected through this unconventional storm

Nonetheless with hope we look forward to a vaccine to keep us all protected and safe

Abruptly our recall then turns to the antics of political candidates in a farcical U.S Presidential race

Where claims were made of fraud and election rigging and propaganda was rife

It was not just a pandemic but also an infodemic that pervaded the fabric of life

Biden won the election but Trump claimed he stole victory and so power he refused to relinquish

The world watched this war of words play out with a mixture of laughter, frustration and anguish

Closer to home Australians endured a black summer as bushfires raged in many parts

Devastation was caused to human lives and homes, to wildlife and the landscape – it broke our hearts

But the indomitable spirit of good people prevailed as many rallied to lend a helping hand

From fundraising and volunteering to rescuing animals from a bushfire ravaged land

This has been a watershed year and even though we have learned so very much

About the strength of the human spirit and what is truly important as such

We have all grown weary from the constant vigilance to keep COVID at bay

And so we eagerly anticipate a cure that will normalize our everyday

In 2021 there will be trips to take, adventures to have, family and friends to see

Goals to set and dreams to fulfill , in communities that will eventually we hope be COVID free

So as we prepare to welcome the new year with prayerful hope for better days for mankind

The irony of hindsight being 2020 will stay with us long after we leave this freakish year behind