We’re a few weeks into the new year and I feel like I’m already on the struggle bus. Actually, I feel as though I am the unwitting driver of said struggle bus. Kind of like Sandra Bullock in Speed but with less pyrotechnics. (I mean, there’s some pyrotechnics. Let’s be real; I have three kids. Fire is always a possibility.)
To be perfectly honest, I feel like I’ve been a mess since March of 2020. I think we can all agree its been a rough two years. That’s why I decided to choose a word for 2022 – to keep me grounded. I wanted a word that sums up everything I’ve been feeling, everything I want to achieve, and what I want to be about. My word for 2022 is: Stand.
I will stand for my faith. I won’t lie; the past two years have shook me. But they’ve also refined me and made me more courageous. I will stand for my faith even when it is unpopular and scary. Because, if I don’t, how can I call myself a believer?
I will stand for my mental health. I will stop saying “yes” when I want to say: “I don’t think I can handle that right now.” I will stop doom-scrolling and turn off the news. I will set boundaries even if it costs me.
I will stand for my physical health. I will focus on putting more real food inside my body instead of looking for the convenient option. I will track my water intake, try to move more, and stop clenching my jaw all the time!
I will stand for my marriage. When society says that if I’m not 100% happy all the time I should think of myself first, I will instead put myself in my husband’s shoes. I will offer him grace and encouragement.
I will stand for my children. I will not make them do things they are uncomfortable with (like giving hugs) and I will push back against anything that could harm them physically, mentally, or emotionally. Even if it means going against popular opinion.
I will stand for those who cannot stand for themselves. I will join the forces to shout for those who can hardly speak because of inability, fear, or apathy.
I will stand even if I get knocked down a thousand times more.
Did you choose a word for 2022? Is it keeping you focused?
