For the past several years I have selected a word to guide me through the upcoming year. Sometimes my words challenge me to live a more focused life. They gently push me into areas that I never thought I would enter and kept me company when their mantra was so far from what I felt I was capable of. Sometimes my word echoed in my mind as I desperately attempted to fulfill its mission, only to find that, at the end of the day, guidance and solace were all that it could offer.
In keeping with my tradition, this year I have chosen the word BRAVE. Actually, sometime back in October, BRAVE chose me. I'm okay with that.
This year I am going to be BRAVE. Brave enough to let go of those habits and relationships that do not nurture my being. Brave enough to accept my limitations regarding my athletic goals and brave enough to push myself just a little harder testing my limits, just to be sure.
I need to be brave so that I can let go of who I think I am supposed to be so that I can fully embrace who I am. I need to be brave so that I can fully pursue my dreams without fearing judgement and criticism.
Webster's Collegiate Dictionary defines brave as having courage, dauntless. But that's not all. Brave is also defined as making a fine show, splendid and excellant. It all sounds good.
In recent years I have followed along with Ali Edwards' as she explored her One Little Word. I have enjoyed the process and the sharing that takes place on her private Facebook page for the group. This past year I became distracted and a little overwhelmed by the volume of people and the virtual "noise" it created in my life. This year I am doing something new.
Once a month I will sit down with my word and create something special related to my word. It may be an art journal that I paint in or that I create collages in. It may end up being a journal, just a written record of what I experience while living with Brave. I may also end up being a combination of lots of different modalities. Who knows, but it will be fun.
I invite you to join me. Once a month, either at my house or online, join me for My Word, My Story, My Year. I don't know what will happen but it is always sure to be interesting! Think about it. I will share more details as I figure them out.
Until then, here I go, into the new year, exuding bravery as splendidly as I can!
