At the beginning of each year, I choose a word that will be a guidepost on my journey throughout the year. I started following along with this project (originally created by Ali Edwards) in 2013, and I’ve been picking a word ever since. For my word this year, I chose Open. You can read my original post and goals for the year here.
Here’s what I wanted open to look like:
- Open is an invitation to let my guard down, to experience vulnerability, and to invite people in.
- Open is an invitation into wonder and delight. To get outside, go for drives, and take in the natural beauty around me.
- Open is an invitation to enjoy rhythms over routines. To try new things. To allow flexibility and spontaneity.
- Open is an invitation to dig deeper into God’s word and truly experience solitude with the Lord.
- Open is an invitation to really live in the margins. To stop scrolling and spend my time doing things that fill my cup.
- Open is an invitation to a peaceful, deep, and joy-filled 2020.
Open (adjective)
allowing access, passage, or a view through an empty space; not closed or blocked up.
exposed to the air or to view; not covered; unprotected; vulnerable.
with the outer edges or sides drawn away from each other; unfolded.
freely available or accessible; offered without restriction.
frank and communicative; not given to deception or concealment.
not finally settled; still admitting of debate.
Open (verb)
move or adjust (a door or window) so as to leave a space allowing access and view.
unfold or be unfolded; spread out.
establish (a new business, movement, or enterprise).
make available or more widely known.
MORE // LESS
MORE rhythms. LESS routines.
MORE long hugs.
MORE intentional purchases. LESS stuff and things.
MORE drawing from an overflow of rest. LESS running myself ragged.
MORE deep, vulnerable conversations. LESS hiding, not asking for help.
MORE championing others and celebrating small wins.
MORE quiet. LESS noise and distractions.
MORE boundaries. LESS have tos.
Less scrolling (always).
MORE simplifying. LESS complicating.
MORE open.
Quotes
While I am learning to make peace with the plans that fell apart, I am learning to breathe deep and keep an open heart and the hope-filled possibility that there is more ahead of me. – Morgan Harper Nichols
We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open. – Unknown