Reserving My Word for 2021: Joy

 

 

 

Benson Sculpture Garden, Colorado. May 2016.

 

As I write this, the outcome of the 2020 election is unknown. 

Regardless of how it turns out, my 2021 word for the year will be joy. 

Although I have a good life (and feel lucky for it), and am generally happy, the past several years have been so full of turmoil domestically and abroad, and in my personal circles, it has brought my emotional reserves low. 

So 2021 (actually, I’ve already started) will be one in which I intentionally engage in the practices that I know (or that might) bring me joy. 

Another way of putting this is: I have made a decision to feel joyful, and it is incumbent upon me to take the actions necessary to execute on that decision. 

Listening to beautiful music while I prepare a meal is a simple example. 

Learning something new, like tennis, is another. 

Lighting my salted caramel candle and breathing in its aroma is another. 

As is deepening the relationships I have with people I care about. 

Sharing some of what I’ve got with others.