As we usher out 2020, we look forward to the future. We have never seen a year like 2020 as we witnessed a pandemic sweep across the globe. We have seen loss of life. We have seen our way of life change; the simple tasks and routines we once knew have been replaced by new protocols. 

As teens, our school and social lives have been altered dramatically. Our school days look very different. The way we spend our time after school, from sports to clubs to the arts has taken new forms. Our decisions about where we apply to college or if we will apply for this upcoming year, all hang in the balance.

As we look to 2021 with uncertainty, we will acknowledge what we have learned and hope for the better. On December 31, at the stroke of midnight, teens yearn for a happier year—one like we used to know. 

As we say hello to 2021, let’s hope it truly is a “Happy New Year”.

Isabella Dussias is a 17-year-old singer-songwriter/composer from New Jersey. She enjoys writing about issues that are important to today’s youth, and she believes music is an important outlet to connect people and share messages through the creativity of lyric and melody. For more information, please visit IsabellaDussias.com.