The Word

If you've been reading this blog for awhile you might know that, at year's end, I don't make resolutions, but rather settle on a word that will encourage and remind me of my goals and intentions for the coming year. I think it started about nine years ago, when members of an online group I belong to started posting their own words. I liked the idea, and unlikely as it might sound, I think those words actually have been motivating. For 2017 my word is resist.












I have arrived at the end of 2016 feeling worn out, raw and ragged. I let my little reminder icon reflect that. Make what you will of the loose ends and hammered copper... at the last minute it occurred to me that the word itself needed to be created using a "resist" technique—https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resist_dyeing .

Why that word? I considered so many words—positive, optimistic, pretty words—but none seemed to have the strength and resolve I was hoping for, until I got to "resist" which speaks to me on many levels.

Resist hatred, bigotry, racism by standing up for all of my fellow citizens, neighbors, family, friends

Resist hopelessness and despair

Resist isolation—stay active in the world

Resist complacency

Resist artistic laziness—keep stretching

Resist time-wasting distractions like Facebook and online games (that was hard to type!)

Resist saying "yes" to things I really don't want or need

And I'm sure there will be many more things to resist! So, perhaps I'm ready to face the coming year. It is sure to be challenging. The word for 2017 joins those from previous years, there to remind me to be present, be alert and meet the future head-on.









- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad