Word for the Year
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As the new year approaches, take time to reflect on this year – vacations, accomplishments, family additions, loss of loved ones, difficulties, and challenges. It is good to pause and think about the year and even write down some of the highlights and changes. It is being grateful for the blessings and to give thanks you have made it through another year. The year has mingled joys and sorrows and has been filled with days of struggles and days of growth and laughter. You are also filled with a mixture of emotions and anticipation of what the new year will bring.
For those of you who have lost a loved one this year, I am so sorry for your loss. The new year brings another intense moment of grief as you realize this will be the first year without your loved one. Life is different, and the new year will come with loneliness, sadness, and emptiness without your loved one. It is knowing life will be different and learning how to live in this different life, knowing the love from your loved one is part of your foundation.
The new year is usually a time of setting goals and resolutions to be accomplished in the year. This can be overwhelming when you attempt to make changes that you know should happen, but you also know how difficult it is to follow through with the resolutions. In the past you may have failed within days of the new year and quit trying. Anxiety and depression therefore can be related to writing resolutions and failing so quickly.
How about a new approach this year? Choose a word for 2026. A word that will keep you focused on your goals and direction for life. It is a word that can challenge you to grow and develop in your personal life and in your faith. Your word can help guide you in making decisions and choices in the year. It also can assist you in choosing what you read, listen to and what you put into your life because your choices focus on your word. For example, over the past few years, here are some of the words I have chosen – Different, Light, Simplify, Adventure, Surrender, Peace, Listen, Discern.
You are now thinking, “How do I find my word?” Ask yourself, “What am I seeking in my life?” “What do I need in my life?” When you sit and ponder life, where is your focus? It is seeking peace and contentment in life and working toward fulfilling that goal. Choosing a word also simplifies your focus. Just one word. Pray about the direction for your life and a word that will guide you.
Once you choose your word, look up the definition. You can even google the definition or actually use a dictionary. Then find Bible verses and positive statements written using your word. You could keep a journal of your findings and write how the word is helping you define your life and growth forward in life.
While resolutions and goals are great, they can also overwhelm and cause guilt when you fail to meet your own expectations. Simplify your life with a word or phrase that can be your guide. Allow your faith to guide you in your choice and how you live out your word.
Elaine J. Sturtz
Living In The Different
