Prompt 1: One Word {via Reverb 10}
Encapsulate the year 2010 in one word. Explain why you’re choosing that word. Now, imagine it’s one year from today, what would you like the word to be that captures 2011 for you? (Author: Gwen Bell)
2010 in one word? Uncertain. Uncertain because I have felt really lost and displaced this past year. Stuck between knowing what I want then not knowing what I want. Having what I want then not wanting it anymore. Knowing who I am then not knowing myself at all. Not wanting what I used to want but not knowing what's next. It's difficult to explain, but all of that uncertainty has caused anxiety, loneliness, exhaustion, and anger. And I think some of it has come from a belief that at some point I will have it all figured out. That at some point everything will stop changing and I can just settle into something predictable, which is complete nonsense, and consequently leads to my new word for 2011: Courage.
Courage because I feel afraid of all the uncertainty. Afraid of not having complete and utter control. The reality that everything, everything, is constantly in the process of changing makes me uncomfortable. I enjoy predictability. I thrive on routine and consistency. But the truth is, life is changing all the time. Life is uncertain, and it's exhausting trying convince myself and live like it's otherwise. So this year it is Courage I need to face the constant changes within myself and the world around me. Courage to be compassionate with myself, with life, and with others. Courage to be imperfect, make mistakes, and not always have it figured out and under control. Courage to love with an open heart and think with an open mind. Courage to figure out what is important and live out of it. Courage for 2011.
{Images Via The Principals of Uncertainty by Maira Kalman ~ LOVE her!}
I love this my friend!
Posted by: Erin | 21 January 2011 at 08:43 AM