I have to say that 2018 was not a good year. Not that there weren’t a few good things. The year started off okay, and some really nice events occurred as it went along, but on the whole, it was pretty awful.
So, why is the one word I’ve chosen for 2019 present? Several reasons, actually. One thing that was reinforced to me over the course of last year was the necessity of appreciating the everyday and the people around you, of being present for life as you are living it, of enjoying what you have while you have it.
This year, if I am talking to someone, I will be present, listening to what that person is saying, not thinking about what I need to finish for work, the errands I should run later, or anything else. I will be there, fully involved in that conversation.
And of course, present means “now,” which, when you think about it, is all we’ve got. So I plan to pay more attention to it.
Present is also another word for gift, and life is full of gifts, if only you take a moment to look for them. I plan to seek out all the presents 2019 has to offer. Even if they are disguised as things I may not think I want.
Wait, I hear you. Present is also a verb. Yes, I will continue (at least I plan to continue) to present at as many conferences and events as will have me. I love the connections that are born and strengthened there. They support me when I need it, and they help me be a better person.
So I present to you the year 2019. May it treat you well, and may I see many of you at some point this year. That would be the best present of all.
I love your choice of a word that has so many different meanings that all bring value to the coming year! Thanks for the motivation to select a word of my own for 2019. I’m going to use the word PLAY: I am expecting my first grandbaby this year and I can’t wait to PLAY in that area of my life, but I’m also hoping to lighten up my interactions with others I support and encourage at work, church and family by being more playful and fun-loving in my presentations, suggestions, training etc. I tend towards a very serious personality and I need to push myself to intentionally PLAY this year!
Thank you! PLAY is a great word, too. Congratulations on your soon-to-be grandbaby! You will definitely have a lot of fun PLAYing there, but while you are in school, you can start PLAYing by participating in the Global School Play Day that is coming up next Wednesday, Feb. 6. Good luck and have fun!