Friday, January 01, 2010

word for 2010: grace


(yes, that is a full size laundry basket full of kittens)

One of the elements that drew me into the Catholic Church was the concept of grace, although I've never been able to make more than clumsy sense of it. I am moved by the idea that God always already loves us first, before we love God, wholly and without condition, that God forgives us even before we have done anything to require forgiveness, as we will inevitably do, and that this outpouring of love and forgiveness fortifies us for repentance and reform.

~ Nancy Mairs ~
from her essay "Here: Grace"

Grace. An outpouring of goodness separate from having earned it. My word for 2010 is grace. I am sure I have no idea what this journey has in store for me, yet with that concept in mind--how can I lose?

2009's word was rich. During the year, my financial wealth diminished rather than growing. Yet, I know from holding this in focus that my understanding has changed. My richness comes not from having great assets at my fingertips, but knowing that I am provided for every step of the way.

Grace, I am sure, is an extension of that. I'll continue to reflect and share my thoughts as they become clear.

How about you? Do you have a word or focus for the year? Please tell me do....


9 comments:

Anonymous said...

happy new year, wanda. i couldnt settle for just one word so have got two: believe and balance.

Deb Shucka said...

Grace is one of my favorite words. So glad you've chosen it to guide you in the months ahead.

Those sure don't look like kittens! :-)

Mary'sCorner said...

I've always loved the word Grace (thought if I ever had a daughter I'd name her Grace). I wish you grace and riches overflowing. Many blessings to you on your 2010 journey, B.

Carrie Wilson Link said...

I love the word choice! I've decided to go with Abundance.

rebecca said...

You exhibit grace in so many ways already. I'm sure your journey will take you interesting places.

Love & hugs...

Mary'sCorner said...

I got my word! It's actually neutral, which is perfect for me right now as I'm continuing to learn that it's one's perspective that counts. My word is NEW. I look forward to lots of "new" in 2010. I hope to accept and embrace new with grace (borrowing from Ingi, Rebecca, and Wanda!)

Ingi said...

Happy new year from paradise. Soon enough we will be wet and cold like the rest of you people.
Miss Coleman assigned me the task to come up with a word and report back to you. My word for 2010 is "acceptance" I think being able to accept anything that comes your way, good and bad and make the best of it is a gift.
Over and out
Mr. Torfason

blognut said...

I hadn't really tried to come up with one word for the year, but I think I'll go with Peace.

Happy New Year!

Susan O'Neil said...

Catching up on y'all from Tripp, Ohio, just north of Dayton. When I first clicked on the comments, i thought i knew what my word for the year was. Now, I think it should be humble because i'm humbled by all the words you wonderful people have chosen.