Hello friends, and Happy New Year!
The holiday season was very different as I recovered from spinal cord surgery. The first two weeks were scary, but I am almost 8 weeks out and feel like a new person. The feeling in my hands and arms is slowly returning, and my balance has improved. Before surgery, I lived with a daily pain level of 7. I am now at a 3.
THREE!
I am so thankful for your prayers and well wishes. They made a huge difference in my recovery.
As for the New Year, you already know what I will talk about…One Word/Star Words. The practice of selecting a word for the year replaces resolutions, which often end up making us feel like a failure. In the Christian tradition, we call these words Star Words. On Epiphany Sunday (1/5/25), we remember the star who led the magi to Jesus. Star words are selected and offered as gifts to the congregation. The words are meant to help people keep their eyes open to how Jesus moves in the world and how our selected word brings us closer to Him.
If you are not religious, the hope is for your word to help you focus and be intentional throughout the year. Having a one-word focus can bring clarity by taking all of your big plans for changing habits in your life and narrowing them down to a single focus. I invite you to take part in this practice. It has been a game-changer for me.
So, how do you select a word?
Here is an online word generator. There are several options to choose from: Google One Word or Star Word generator.
Sit with your word for a few weeks. If it just doesn’t seem like a good fit, select another. It is amazing how a word that seems to make no sense becomes a guiding force for the year.
When you select your word, let me know. I would love to share the different words we will use throughout the year.
I look forward to hearing from you all.
Peace be with you,
