My Perfect Focus Word Is….

Happy New Year! I’ve been contemplating what my focus for 2021 should be. I usually pick a word that I want to make my mantra for the year, a word that inspires me to become a better version of myself. Last year my word was “Color.” My goal was to “color” outside the lines to make my life richer and fuller. That meant for me to be more creative and inspirational. Sadly, 2020 wasn’t quite the way I expected it to be (I’m sure you would agree), but I did finish writing my book and hope to have it published this spring or summer.

Now this year I’ve been wrestling with several words – create, focus, inspire, encourage, love, give, share, joyful, strong, and determined. I realize that most of these words are others-centered, which is the emphasis I am feeling lead to this year. That is the main reason I started this blog in the first place.

I Found It — The Best Focus For 2021!

After much thought and prayer, I have finally narrowed it down – BLESS! It is a very significant word for 2021 after the isolation and discord of 2020. Did you notice that I did not choose the adjective “blessed?” I am very blessed, but I wanted to make my word a verb that means action. It requires a commitment. It makes me focus on giving rather than receiving.

You see, as a Christian I know that my life is to model the Savior’s life so that when others look at me, they will see him. Then hopefully they will want to know him.  As they get to know him, he will change their lives as he has changed has mine. That is the ultimate result of blessing others, isn’t it?

Just like the meme I shared at the top of this post I am blessed to be a blessing to others. The apostle Paul said, “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8). Yep, that’s our job! But it really isn’t too hard. Want to know the best part? The more I bless others, the more I’m blessed, too!

My Responsibility and Commitment

To truly bless others, I must commit myself to really focus on their needs. I do that by talking with them and getting past the superficial. More importantly, I need to listen not only to their words, but to their body language and actions. Every person we know is hurting in some way. Think about that! I’m not exaggerating! I don’t know anyone who has a perfect life. Do you? No one has it all together. We all have a secret, don’t we? But guess what? Our Heavenly Father knows all our secrets and loves us anyway. And I sure am glad to know that.

Bless! I just love this word because it’s so beautiful and powerful.  I know, however, that it is also one that is filled with responsibility that I must take seriously. When I wake up every morning I want to ask myself, “Who can I bless today?” Then I want to look back at the end of December and say, “Thank you, Lord, for blessing my life and allowing me to bless others.”

Hey, maybe this blog will bless you a bit, too. I sure hope so. I hope you will share it with your friends as well. I’m going to focus my next post on what we women (even us old grandmas!) really need – and that’s loving ourselves! (If you follow me, you’ll be notified when the post is live.)

What Will Your Word Be?

I hope you will drop me a note and let me know what your word will be for 2021. I’ll be happy to pray about it for you. I already pray every day for you as you read this blog that God will touch your heart and explode his love right into your soul! If you haven’t read my post about resolutions, I think it may help you find your focus word for 2021. https://grandma-d.com/5-new-resolutions-to-change-your-life/

Hugs to you, my dear one.

Love,  Grandma D