Rooted

Recently, I read a blog where the author talked about choosing a single word to represent a goal for the coming year. She talked about choosing a word that scared her. This struck me as an interesting way to encourage change and intentionality throughout the new year, without setting strict boundaries about what counts and what doesn't (like setting New Year's resolutions). It leaves you more free to take new opportunities that life offers.

So I began thinking of my own word for the year. While I didn't want to choose a word that terrified me, I did want the word to represent growth. And for me, growth has been linked with getting out of my comfort zone. It is a little scary.

I was reminded of a time in Bellingham when the church I attended went through a series that they titled Rooted. It was about rooting yourself in the Bible, and your faith. As I considered where I am and what could be in store for this year, it became clear that I wanted permanency in my life. During college I moved every year, which is not uncommon. But now, I am at a job I enjoy with potential to move up and I live in an area I've always wanted to spend more time in. It makes sense to put down some roots here. I want to explore those things that bring stability to my life and deeply root myself in them.

Nature demonstrates that we can root ourselves in anything. Trees will find a way to grow on cliff sides, out of rocks, or deep in the sea. So that is my word for the year, Rooted. I want to explore those things that provide me stability, like yoga, road trips, hikes, and becoming involved in this community. I plan to root myself in life, but I will always leave room for new, unexpected adventures.