Word for 2017 ~ Freedom

Photo Credit: Tamara Menzi

My word for this year chose me.  Actually, Freedom pursued me.  

In books and blog posts, sermons and song lyrics, it kept shining forth in so many places I dared not take notice.  

And of course, since I asked for a word and waited for it to find me- it is exactly what I need.  

Really, who among us doesn't need a little freedom somewhere in their life?

  

I have a whole list of areas where I plan to choose Freedom-

Free from expectations- my own as well as other people's.

Free to say No when it is the right thing for me, and free to say Yes! when I want to.

Free to live and love my life and let others think and say what they may.

More about those and others on my list soon.  But for now, how about you? 

What is your word for 2017?  I'd love to know what yours is if you chose one.  If not, why not now?  

Grace & Peace to you.

Love,

Catherine Ann

Word for 2014- EMBRACE

EMBRACE
1. To take, clasp or enclose in the arms; to press to the bosom, in token of affection.

2. To seize eagerly; to lay hold on; to receive or take with willingness that which is offered

3. To comprehend; to include or take in

4. To comprise; to enclose; to encompass; to contain; to encircle.

5. To receive; to admit.

6. To find; to take; to accept.

(from Webster’s 1828 dictionary) 

As I've pondered and prayed for a word for the coming year,
this one embraced me.
Kind of snuck up and grabbed me, you know,
like one of those hugs that you aren't expecting,
but are thankful for once the initial shock is over?  

And as I sat with this word- embrace ... it fits.

  

It is time to embrace this life; this simple,
home-centered,
Christ-centered,
mama life that I live.  

The life that is messy and often loud,
crowded with people and projects that all vie for my attention,
sometimes all at the same time.

And also the life that calls me to slip away for solitude and silence,
time alone with my Lord and my pen and the page.

It is the year to EMBRACE who I am,
even if I have heard "You are something else"
too often for comfort lately ...
something else, well maybe I am, and I'm OK with that ...
especially since I'm not even sure what the comparison is ;) .  

So, here's to 2014- the year to EMBRACE
the something else that I am,
the journey I am on, the life I've been given,
my work in this world,
and the beautiful souls I am blessed to share it with.  

What are you embracing this year?

Do you have a word for 2014?  If so, I'd love to know what it is!

Prayers for many blessings this year my friends,

Catherine