Robin’s #OneWord2021

I always enjoy the various rituals associated with the beginning of a new year. As an educator, I normally have a few weeks off between Christmas and the New Year. I typically spend my time organizing, cleaning, preparing, and planning. This year I donated a few items to a local charity, watched some of my favorite holiday movies, and engaged in self-care activities to keep myself inspired throughout the holiday season. I like to take advantage of this season to hit the “reset” button and reestablish good habits in the most important areas of my life: Faith, Health, Family & Friends, Work, and Stewardship. Like many of you, I have missed my freedom this year….. I have missed the freedom to go to the gym and church. I have missed being able to freely visit new places and engage face-to-face with family and friends. Although it has been a challenge at times, I have chosen not to concentrate on the things that I cannot do and to remind myself of the blessings that I am fortunate enough to receive each day. I have replaced face-to-face worship and interaction with those I love with virtual interactions and social distancing as much as possible. I have participated in virtual yoga classes and walked outdoors in lieu of going to the gym. One of my greatest blessings came today when my husband and I participated in a new year’s drive by communion ritual in which our minister reminded us to follow the mantra mentioned in Proverbs 3:5-6……Trust Him, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path. I am choosing this passage as my mantra for the year.

I am choosing the word PERSISTENCE as my word of the year and backing it up with another well-known scripture, Galatians 6:9. “Do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season, we will reap if we do not give up.” My friends, we must never give up. Today is bright and tomorrow will be even brighter. Be blessed in knowing this truth. Bring it, 2021. We are ready to face you with joy and persistence in our hearts.