A New Year and a New Word

Happy New Year! 

A new year has begun. It's time once again to pick a few goals for the upcoming twelve months. Hubby and sat down and discussed a few things we wanted to improve in a variety of areas. We shared our ideas and goals for spiritual growth, exercise, work and money. We reviewed our budget and talked about our little ones.

Last January, I chose a word to inspire my year. The word was cherish. When I began thinking of a word for this year I was surprised that one came to my mind so quickly: embrace.

I like that embrace encompasses a physical, psychological and spiritual aspect. The physical act of embracing is such a meaningful action. It shows affection, compassion, joy, acceptance and understanding without saying a word. This year I want to be more purposeful about embracing those around me, my husband, children, family and friends. I believe it's important to remember that we are physical beings and that a simple embrace can bring such joy and healing to the body and soul.

Embracing also means willingly accepting or gladly receiving. I like to be in control, or think I'm in control, of life. Often this delusion prevents me from being appreciative when things don't go as planned. This year, I want to work on embracing those things that are out of my control with a glad and joyful attitude.

For me the spiritual aspect of embracing means to delve deeper into the mystery of my faith, to open my heart to God's love and to be not afraid.

I'd like to find a way to place this word somewhere in my home as a constant reminder throughout the year. I haven't figured out a way to do this yet, but I'll share whatever it is I come up with.