On Choosing a Word

A couple people have asked me what process I use to determine {my} word. I think I can safely say that it’s not so much a series of easy steps as it is a time of reflection.

• The word has to be deep. I can’t really speak for others, but I seriously doubt the word “groceries” would be of value to me.
• The word has to be applicable. “Read” isn’t useful for me, because I already do it everyday. Probably to excess. It’s hardly something I need to grow in. Which is a good reminder:
• The word has to promote growth. I already “think” too much, so I need a word that stretches me in a different direction.
• The word should be challenging. Again, I have a tendency to “linger,” so that’s not where I’m headed.
• The word shouldn’t be too narrow. I’ve read about a system where the idea behind choosing the word is how I want God to be working in my life. That’s really cool, but again, that’s something I probably spend a lot of time pondering anyway, so it’s not where I’m headed. Not this year.
• The word should be able to be interpreted in a variety of ways. Again, not too narrow. But not too broad. In my internet meanderings, I ran across a couple of people who chose the word “do.” Whoa, Nelly. That’s just too much {for me}.
• The word has to resonate. That’s really it, in a nutshell. Whatever the word is, it has to “ring” for me. It has to hit me, just right.

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If you’ve already chosen your word, what other tips can you share
for those who are still searching for theirs? 

Cynthia Schrage: Reader. Knitter. Writer. Pianist. Seamstress. Humorist. Photographer. Editor. Gardener. Baker. Theologian. Unashamed. Not necessarily in that order. Ever. Connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and my blog.