I can remember the first time that I noticed someone declare a word over their year, nearly two decades ago now. I thought, "wow, that's so cool, but how in the world do you pick ONE word?!" Some time down the road I began doing this, to help set my intentions for the year. I devote a good chunk of time to this process, with a lot of prayer, reflection over the previous year, and dreaming about the upcoming one. Since I'm completely extra in every aspect, I also never do only one word, but instead I like to choose 3 that are somewhat related, and all equally important in my life!
For 2023, my words were Relax, Trust, Alignment. Beginning in January last year, I had a lot of questions about my life, a lot of direction up in the air, and more upcoming decisions than I could humanly process. Something that I have said for the past several years, was how out of alignment I felt with my true self. Sure, I was moving through life smoothly and successfully even, but like our cars when not fully aligned, something felt off and wobbly. I knew that I would not be able to fix this alone, that it would require me relaxing and relinquishing control, while trusting that God would pave the way. Wow, did He do that. 2023 was such a year of growth, surprises, and while I'm not 100% there, definite progress toward alignment!
Entering 2024, I knew I wanted to set myself up for a big year. If I learned nothing else from the recent chunk of my life, it's that I have NO idea what will happen and to expect the unexpected. This year, my three words are Open, Passion, and Radical.
It took me a long time to fully grasp this concept, but I want to go through life with Open palms instead of closed fists. So many times we yearn to control and dictate our own circumstances. I get it! Trust me, I do too. However, you know that saying about "we make plans and God laughs" - well it's true and I've experienced it more times than I can count! I want to be open to new unexpected opportunities, people, blessings, challenges, and trust that God's ways are better than mine.
I have so many Passions in life, and this year I am consciously choosing to make sure that my actions align with them. Any decision that I make, purchase, etc should align (catch that word again) with the things I am passionate about at my core. This makes things so simple in the big picture, there is no wasted questioning over choices, spending silly mindless money, and it helps me reach toward my bigger life goals!
Lastly, I have prayed for dreams that are far too big for myself. Just like how I have so many passions, I also have a lot of huge dreams. While I have accomplished a lot of amazing things throughout my 36 years, I strive for others that I cannot fathom how I would do alone. The good news is that God performs Radical actions every minute of everyday. I know this, trust it, and believe it.
So for 2024, I am walking with an open mind and heart, following my passions that God instilled in me, and looking for His radical movement in me, through me, and around me!
What is your word (or words) for this year?! I'd love to hear them!!
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