It happens every year.
My One Word 365 unfolds in ways unexpected.
As usual, I started the year with an idea of what I hoped my word would accomplish in me. And, par for the course, I’ve already been surprised to discover how much more it holds.
Inevitably, there are layers to it that I don’t even know to anticipate.
When 2016 began, I had no clue that badassery would lead me to buy a second home, wear things I swore I’d never wear, say yes to uncomfortable situations and say no to things that aren’t life-giving, feel my own confidence growing, or share publicly about my chronic illnesses.
And I certainly didn’t imagine that badassery would take me to Southeast Asia.
Back in January, I sent off my passport to be renewed. Ten years and thirty countries worth of stamps later, it was time for my fourth passport. With my current one expiring this summer, I figured I’d just go ahead and start the renewal process early.
When I mailed it off at the post office, the postal worker asked me if I had an adventure planned for which I would need my passport. “Sadly not,” I told her. “But I want to be ready in case one comes my way!”
Three days later I received an invitation to Southeast Asia.
This Friday, I’ll be boarding a plane with my passport, carry-on, and badassery in hand. I’m traveling there to experience The Exodus Road‘s work in action, as they help search for and rescue victims of sexual slavery and human trafficking.
I still feel pretty stunned by the humbling and overwhelming opportunity I’ve been presented with: To see, experience, and partner with true badasses, risking their lives to help end modern day slavery… I just keep shaking my head in disbelief.
After pioneering a nonprofit in South Africa for 13 years, Alece Ronzino now lives in Nashville, TN. She’s a vacation rental management firm owner, freelance copywriter/editor, and the founder of One Word 365. More importantly, she dances in the car, talks with her hands, and makes a mean guacamole. Follow Alece on Instagram and Twitter, and visit her blog, Grit and Glory.