Are you someone who makes New Year’s resolutions, or do you choose to focus on a word for the year? For 2024 my word chose me. There was no praying and pondering over what it should be. In fact, I hadn’t actually given it any thought. Instead there was just an echo of this word in my conversations, and it finally got my attention.

The last 2 years have been filled with many new creative pursuits that really excite me. This has caused me to want to share them with everyone, expecting them to be just as excited as I am. You may have guessed that this has not happened. What I’m learning is that I need to reframe my thinking, to create without expectation of response. Whether it’s writing this blog, making greeting cards or teaching yoga, I’m starting to focus on creating opportunity. I’m creating opportunity for people to read uplifting words, fill mailboxes with love, to enjoy a pocket of peace.

I’m also trying to pay attention to the opportunities God has put in my path. I recently took advantage of a 2 week new student special at a yoga studio. This led to me working a weekly 4 hour shift at the front desk in exchange for unlimited classes. This same studio will soon be offering a weekend training in restorative yoga, something that very much interests me. I don’t know where all this is leading, but I’m thankful for the opportunities.

Opportunities

May I take the ones meant for me

May I create them

We are daily presented with opportunities to offer kindness. I want to pay attention and take advantage of those. To be able to look back and know that I made someone’s day a bit better.

May I be mindful as I walk through this day

May I be a blessing to those you put in my path

A warm smile

A listening ear

A kind word

Letting people know that they are seen, heard, cared for

I have a lot of happy anticipation about this year of focusing on opportunity, how it will change both my head and my heart.