For the past few years I have embraced the tradition of choosing a new word symbolize my intentions for the new year. The tradition was introduced to me by Christine Valters Paintner of Abbey of the Arts. Christine talks about how we are to let our word choose us as well as us just choosing a word.
As an introvert–someone who needs alone time to recharge–I have been feeling the need to find some balance in my life. I really do like being with people too. That was one of my first thoughts when I pondered the word “connect.” I even tried other words on for size like “weave.” “Weave” is more poetic, but I was still drawn back to “connect.” My decision was made.
So, what does this word mean to me and how do I apply it to my life? The answers to that question are still evolving, but a couple things have stood out to me. One is the idea of strengthening my connection with God. Another is helping other strengthen their connection with God. Instead of doing something completely new, I realized that I was already doing these things through prayer bedes. (At least, I was intending to do it.) But intentions are not actions. One blog post a year is not much action!
That brings me to another thought I had today. Namely, “How do I connect my mind with my body?”. Another thing that I have intended to do, which is something I know many intend to do in the new year, is get more exercise. I have big ideas of what I want to do, but they never seem to be accomplished. Merging my mind with my body is another way I intend to connect this year. My word for the year has usually fit easily into my spiritual and mental intentions, but I was excited to see how it could fit into my physical intentions this year too.
Now that I have said that, this website will be an actual track of how I fulfill (or not) my intentions for the coming year. My goal is to post at least more than I did last year. That I think I can accomplish. Two is more than one!
New Year’s Blessings to All!
