The countdown to 2012 has started. I have so much to be thankful for this year. My life took many new turns in 2011 and God called me to step out into uncomfortable territory.
Last year for the first time I chose one word to focus on. It was fearless and I knew that word would test me. With butterflies in my stomach I stuck with that word. By April choosing in one second to face a fear changed my world instantly and began a huge journey of faith.
Even the one word necklace I ordered became part of the story. I ordered one and someone stole my package. The gracious staff at Lisa Leonard replaced it. I wore it many days this year as a reminder to be courageous and to be fearless. For awhile this summer I lost the necklace and thought “ok, maybe God knows that someone else needs it more.” I was thankful to find it again and keep holding on to the reminder to be fearless even when dreams didn’t come to fruition, this year.
I became a regular contributor, writing for Betty Crocker and Pillsbury. Really it’s my dream job. I get to create recipes and write about them…for Betty Crocker.
How cool is that? I would never have that opportunity had I not taken that big leap of faith.
I spent more time with God this year, trying to really get it. Trying to recapture a relationship I had let become less important.
In finding courage to face my fears stuff came to the surface. Sometimes ugly stuff, old fears, new fears, deep hurts I had to chose to let go of. Healing came in sweet ways and I am continually amazed at what God can do.
There is power in words and choosing to focus on something. I found that when I take those steps of faith God meets me and in 2011 I was required to be fearless many times but in the end I am so happy. I wouldn’t be doing much of what I do now had I not taken that huge leap of faith.
So, now I am thinking about 2012 and the word that God will give me. I might even consider selecting a picture of the year. I have signed up to do Ali Edward’s One Word 2012. I think it will challenge me to creatively consider the word. There are several words I am considering, all around the same verse Ephesians 3:20.
What about you? Did you select a word for 2011? If not, consider it for 2012.
