On December 31st, my daughter shared an email with our family about selecting a word for the year. I had been wanting to do this for quite some time, but seems like I hadn’t spent enough time thinking about and reflecting on what is most important for me to focus on.
The email included a list of 44 higher vibration words of affirmation from which we were to select one that is positive for us, even something that may scare us even a little bit. I made sure to look up the definitions as suggested to ensure the meaning fit with what I needed to work on and focus on for the new year.
One of the words I selected had a biblical reference, which caught my attention immediately. This one, I thought, must be the word intended for me. I did some more reading, looking up Bible verses that related to it and thought about what that means for me in my everyday life and living.
Courage became my word as it relates to to so many components of my life. I know I need to work on overcoming my own fears and insecurities, including body image and allowing myself the freedom to be my authentic self, to more actively pursuing my interests and hobbies.
As I strengthen this area of my life, I do hope to encourage (and inspire). Having a focus word of the year is new for me. My word and I, we will learn about one another as we journey together and watch our relationship blossom. I don’t have any expectations or plans, rather taking it a moment at a time to see how courage impacts my life. I know God will lead me to what it is I need to know and learn more about.
When you look at the picture of me in this post, there is something I want you to know. This carefree expression was prompted by my daughter who encouraged me to be silly and how to pose. For me to let loose and see this side emerge was a rare occurrence. Typically I withhold, refrain from allowing myself the freedom to be in the moment and alive. So much more reserved on most occasions.
I am grateful for the moment she captured!
I know I am capable of rising up and becoming a better version of myself.
I am strong, even when I feel weak and vulnerable.
I know there will be days when I fail, defaulting back to old mindsets, habits and ways. When I do, I will remind myself of how much I am loved. Mistakes happen and there are learning curves. I will try my hardest and give Him my best, even though somedays my best will be better on some days more than others.
One day, fear will no longer have such a strong voice within me. It will be silenced out by all my courage and strength. All it takes is putting on foot in front of the other, to keep moving forward making progress and great gains.
Magnificent Meraki 