For a lot of us, this has been a year of losses, growing pains and
“stretching”. Feeling capacity has maxed out at times. I’ve referred to my 2013 year as a whirlwind.
Merriam-Webster Dictionary describes Whirlwind as 1) “a very
strong wind that moves in a spinning or swirling motion and that can damage
buildings, trees, etc..” 2) “something that involves many quickly changing
events, feelings, etc.”
Traditions changed,
relationships have come and gone for a season, expectations - a continual flow
of alterations. Finding it difficult to catch my breath at times...
Going out of my comfort
zone (on purpose!) on many levels has stretched me in (positive) ways that can’t currently be explained…
I began this
year with three focus words that have contributed to personal growth: Gratitude,
Presence and Discernment.
Gratitude for: home, food, health, family and friends, each new
day with God.
Presence
– being “present” (with attitude, attention, “on time” and with an expectant
heart to see what God is going to do). Whether
it is a meeting, with family or friends, outdoors – make it count. Putting away
the techy stuff, giving "face time" and listening to other people speak, asking
questions - being a friend.
Discernment
– Making good choices on what I read, see (visuals), hear, writing in text or
online. The company I keep – it all affects
my atmosphere and those around. To be cognitive of my words before spoken, and
thoughts entering my mind. Selective and
intentional. Time is a gift.
End of year reflecting - things planned to do, people desired to spend time with… It didn’t
happen this month. The swirling of
activities, being pulled in multiple directions… this is one of
the craziest Decembers experienced in a long time. Feeling just shy of a “breakdown”, I could
become upset with myself - but I’m not going to do it.
Another one of life's learning experiences. Let's call it "end of the year stretches”. God desires for me to rest upon Him. Refocusing and looking ahead, God is
revealing to Start Fresh.
"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings as eagles;
they shall run, and not be weary; and
they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)
What are my focus
word(s) for this New Year? Still listening
to my Whisper (God). What word(s) do you plan to use?
2014 Isn't a new beginning - It's a Fresh Start. I like that.
Happy New Year ~ Peace & Joy ~ Suzanne
My word for 2014 is "Present" as a reminder of the importance of continuing to show up and be "in the flesh" with folks.
ReplyDeleteThank you for note, Jen. Wonderful word and reminder. It was a very good reminder for me throughout the year with my word, "Presence" - to be present. Caused me to actually sit and visit when company were present instead of being overly concerned with the hospitality aspect. Also, when at church, spending one-on-one time with a friend, at a learning meeting, the effort to place my phone on vibrate and away in my bag (not blaring on the table so that I was not tethered to it) helped my focus. I trust God that should any emergency come up in my short windows of time with people, He will get my attention when needed. Being "Present" has made a big difference in my friendships and family - has improved my listening skills as well. Do you have any examples yet of how this word has helped you this year?
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