This holiday season was full of activities, ups and downs, a good amount of decorating and baking, and constant motion. It brought joy, happiness, and even stress but it all was worthwhile. The family was together celebrating good news: a new little one will join the extended family this year. Change happens and in our family it brings a small blessing through the grace of God.
Now, in the midst of de-Christmasing the house, the idea of change seems very appealing. There is clarity to my thoughts. I have a new direction ushered in by my days of pondering on a new one word. Hopefully, my one little word will bring a slow-down pace and a mindful flow to the year. My thoughts are clear.
You may enjoy reading the poems I created this week that lead up to the unveiling of my one word. Part 1 began with my slice of life, Thoughts for 2023. Part 2, Spiritual Journey - 2023 One Word Guide, unveiled my new word, Be.
Today, I offer:
My 2023 Mantra: "Just Be" - In stillness and peace or strife, reflect on renewing my commitment to change behaviors that need transformation.
My Proposed Action: Prepare daily for change, renewal, and peace. Reflect on my collection of one words:
openness, listen, believe, joy, hope, embrace, balance, begin, appreciate, and Be
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Your OLW is powerful! Best wishes for a fantastic New Year!
ReplyDeleteI hope "Be" helps me slow down this year, Mary Lee. Enjoy the week.
DeleteLove that OLW, Carol. The NY Times this am offers nice things about resolutions today, FYI, reminding me of your calm words to prepare for the year ahead. Happy New Year with "be"! Congratulations to the family for that new one coming!
ReplyDeleteA new little gift will come in June. Today, Aurora celebrates her Lil' Christmas birthday. My daughter asked Santa to come and read to the little friends at the party today. We are all excited!
DeleteI love "just be." Such a good reminder!
ReplyDelete"Just be" helped me remain peaceful yesterday so I am off to a good start, Marcie!
DeleteYour word, BE, echoes my thoughts this season. I am looking to find time and space and quiet to just be. I'm looking forward to reading Two Truths and a Fib. It looks like a fun collection
ReplyDeleteMy poetry anthology book was delivered via mail yesterday. I am super excited, Kay. Enjoy January.
DeleteCarol, thank you for linking your post with Dolly Parton's song. I really enjoyed listening to it. I found myself thinking about - yes, it's been a tough few years and so much struggle, yet life is/can be good again if we but do a few of those things. BE the change we want to see?
ReplyDeleteI also love your photo and poem, the persona of winter, pausing to consider its reflection. This is a wonderful moment for us to do the same and consider the year ahead. Thank you!
Patricia, I remember taking this photo and then creating a reflection as if winter was providing the tools to stop, reflect, and renew my love for the season. I love your commentary on the persona of winter. Thanks for adding that to my day. There is such a sense of stillness outside my window today. Only the remnants of a still winter scene are here because winter decided to be milder than my usual New York winters. Have a wonderfully quiet week.
DeleteCongratulations, Carol, on your publication in Bridget's book. Am looking forward to seeing it! I know what you mean about the feeling of more clarity now that the holidays are over. Less business, I suppose, but it's always a delight to celebrate. And it sounds like you have a new little one to look forward to. Happy New Year!
DeleteHa ha! I always forget. The last post was from me, Janice.
DeleteThanks, Janice, for joining me in a post-New Year way. Poetry Friday is always a wonderful way to greet friends and offer soothing words of poetic goodness.
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