In the past, I have had words find me — in a serendipitous manner with a lace of intuition. This year was no exception as my favorite poet and artist, Morgan Harper Nichols, created an Instagram Reel of suggested words for the year. A screenshot determined my word this year, but I am certain it was meant for me (even if it were a millisecond between my word and another.)
I was clouded with so many fearful thoughts of the future, the what-ifs and I can’ts and worry-mixed-with-doubt. It was hard to gain clarity and even find out the truth in God’s sight: what is the best decision and next-right-thing? If only I could see through the fear, I pondered; what would that feel like? A sigh of relief, a breath of fresh air, and peace? Likely all of the above.
Discernment is a tool in our spiritual arsenal – one of the Holy Spirit gifts to us. It guides us to the will of God, which is to say the best possible outcome for us.
This year I choose blossom as my Word because it represents my intention to grow from the roots I planted as a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5) and build back what was broken through the vehicle of relationship.
It was the morning of the most important interview of my career; with emotions running haywire and hormones adding a dizzying effect, I decided that I just couldn't go to my interview that afternoon. The fear shouted so loudly that I couldn't hear the voice of wisdom that knew to show up despite the very big feelings. This was my dream job, after all!
Every year like clockwork, the school year ends and depression hits. You would think I’d be jumping for joy, elated about my two month break from work. As humans we are habitual creatures and I thrive off of routine, particularly, as most people do. Summer break is not a vacation. It is a hiatus — a break between one year ending and a new year beginning.
As I drove home from work on a particularly blustery day, windows down and music blaring, I felt the cool yet strong wind rush into the car. I could have sworn something flew through the window, but I couldn’t see any evidence of it. When I pulled into the driveway, underneath the music, I heard a faint buzzing noise. Sure enough, in the cup holder was evidence that I'd indeed noticed a visitor.
