It has been my practice over the past few years to pick a focus word for the year—some quality that I would like to encourage in my home or to work on as a personal quality. Words that I have chosen in previous years include “joy,” “love,” and “hope.”
This year, my word is “kind.” I actually didn’t think long about choosing my focus word, because I have been under conviction over the past few months to intentionally be more kind. I don’t think others would ever characterize me as unkind, but I want develop into a person who cares more about others and who is careful not to speak unkindly about others.
My goals are to:
- Not participate in, encourage, or listen to gossip. To think the best of others.
- Look for ways to bless others, whether it is a word of thanks or encouragement or an action that helps someone.
- When others are harsh or unkind, to respond with kindness (especially with my family members).
- Be less self-focused. To be more aware of others’ feelings and needs.
Do you have a word for the year?
I actually do. I posted it to facebook recently. It's gratitude. Gratitude is an emotion expressing appreciation for what one has. The best way to reap the benefits of gratitude is to notice new things you’re grateful for every day. Gratitude strengthens relationships, improves health, reduces stress, and, in general, makes us happier. Gratitude helps us realize what we have. This can lessen our need for wanting more all the time.
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