The festive season is now over with the new year leading us all to the prospect of change with the shared hope for recovery and for regaining our familiar ways of living that the pandemic has claimed throughout most of 2020. For many people, it is a time for contemplation and reflection on the year that passed to prepare us for the new one ahead. It is the time when we think of new resolutions, of what we learned, what has worked and what has not; and of who disappointed us, failed our expectations, or hurt us. And most certainly the time we think of who was there for us to support us, care for us, and was generous in showing us kindness, respect and love.

It is also sadly the time that many people are coming to terms with the loss of loved ones and discover ways of adjusting to a life without them. The prospects in the new year feel rather different to them and certainly not as optimistic or promising as they do to others. Similarly so, for those who lost their independence in whatever context of cause that maybe – financial, health or otherwise. Yet, amid all the negativity that has surrounded us in the months that passed, it is important to acknowledge that we have indeed learned a great deal. If anything, our experiences have taught us and reminded us first and foremost that we can no longer ignore the fact that taking whatever has been familiar in life for granted is not only problematic, but almost delusional too. And secondly that what is unique in us all is our humanity and our capacity to relate to each other in a compassionate manner that helps us endure our challenges and sufferings. When we are affected by a common threat, problem, or misfortune we find ourselves united and able to better understand each other. Yet, being understanding and kind to one another should always guide us in the way we approach human experience, since everyone has also their own secret battles to fight in addition to the ones we are compelled to share. Let us hold on to a positive spirit for this new year and to those thoughts that should indeed prevail in our efforts to get on with life in the best way possible. Happy New Year to us all!

Antony Sigalas Psychotherapist for the Alpha Care Counselling Services Tel: 02083736287.’

With kind regards

Antony

Antony Sigalas MA Psych.
Senior Psychotherapist UKCP Reg. / Family Therapist / Trainer
For the AlphaCare Let’s Talk Counselling Service established in 1998
Tel: 02083736287 Email: [email protected]
The ACLT Counselling Service operates Monday & Thursday.
The ACLT Covid-19 Service operates Tuesday & Wednesday