Every day, people are chatting and peacefully living their lives. Can you imagine a more charming place than sitting with your family every year for dinner, eating that crispy Thanksgiving turkey or that juicy Christmas ham? Well, for some people, not every year can leave the same taste in their mouth. Sometimes, the universe sends signals stating that something unexpected will occur, and there is nothing that can change that. “The butterfly effect” is what many like to call it. So, has this year brought a similar display to the last, or has an occurrence brought greater differences to this impactful generation? 

Harshly, this year is known to have brought many difficulties when involving everyday lives. Anna states, “I would give this year a five out of ten in difficulty. I have had many ups and downs throughout the year with school, friends, and sports. But, overall, the year has been pleasant so far.” Jessica stated, “I would most definitely move onto the year 2025 forever if I got the chance because 2024 just hasn’t been my year and I can’t handle all the stress that this period has brought.” Although differently expressed, there are many aspects of how the year 2024 has affected lives, and possibly the future.  

Regarding these statements, Anna includes, “I think a highlight of my year has been joining cross-country. At first, I was dreading it massively, but I was so glad that I did! I met so many new and amazing people and the sport has shaped me into a stronger and healthier person.” 

This positive statement may be the key to believing that this era isn’t as bad as it seems. “This year has affected my life by making me more patient and I now know more things about myself,” Jessica adds. Although the world throws things in our path, Anna and Jessica have provided vivid descriptions of how their sports, friends, and school have been altered into making their lives a little easier/strong willing. 

Now, time comes and goes, but the present is always the part of the year that feels like a once in a lifetime event. Friends and family play a big part in these connections, creating memories, experiences, and goals that move with you as you grow. “All in all, this year has brought many great things to my family and me. So many people tend to look to the past and future, but they don’t tend to realize that the present is the most important part. So, yes, each year is different and holds different memories, in fact, all we can do is look into the future differently. Until we are faced with the present or past of course,” Anna finalizes.