When 2018 began, I noticed people declaring "their word" for the year. I gave it some thought, and decided my word would be "open." I was feeling open to change, open to breaking old patterns and routines, and open to the possibilities life might have to offer.
The first half of the year, not much changed. I did remain open though. And when the time was right, I opened myself to two enormous changes.
First, I laid myself open to a new career. After 14 years with a small business I had literally helped to build, I walked away and into a new opportunity in a brand new industry. I was terrified. I went from being the go-to person to being the person who constantly needs help and insight from others. It was (and continues to be) a tremendous growth experience for me. I have joined a team of people whose high level of character is matched by their high level of talent - and that is a rare, wonderful thing. My work is meaningful and impacts people's lives in a real and valuable way. I feel so blessed and rewarded.
Second, I opened myself to the possibility of romance after 4 years of being inward-facing and choosing to be single. I enjoyed a brief season of companionship, smiles and laughter, friendship, and perhaps love. It ended poorly and without explanation, which makes healing difficult. But I was open. And that in and of itself is a success for me. It's something I've not been willing to do for far too long, and the better parts of the relationship showed me I could still open my heart to someone. As is often the case, I simply opened it to the wrong person.
So I look to 2019, mulling over what my word and my mantra might be. My first child will turn 18 next week and graduate in a few months, moving on to college and a life of independence. It will be a tremendous transition and will mark 2019 in unequivocal ways. I know my "word" will relate to that, it just hasn't come to me yet. I'll keep you posted.
