It is that time of year again, when some of us choose a word for the coming year. It isn't a practice I was familiar with until I began blogging, but I like the idea of centering my heart on one thing. Ideally it's a word I've prayed about and felt the Lord speak into my spirit.
Having said that (and sounding far more spiritual than I have any right to), I must admit most years I lose focus. In fact, by the time several months have passed I've often forgotten the word altogether. So much for good intentions.
However, hating to give up on something I know is good, I'm going to give it another go. Last year my word was listen. I wrote about it here. Truthfully, I did sort of forget I had chosen it as my word, but ironically I made an effort to be a better listener all year long. I won't give myself high marks, but I think I did a bit better - less interrupting, less trying to always have the right answer. Less - but I have a long way to go.
I recently read a devotional entitled "The Sound of Silence," by David Roper. He writes about the power of silence - the way it can give us the opportunity to reconsider the harsh words bubbling just beneath the surface. And the way it can give the other person a chance to "hear" their own words hovering in the air around them.
Apart from this, I think there are often conversations when silence is exactly what the other person needs. All they really want is a listening heart. They don't want to hear all about the way I had a similar experience and the way I dealt with it. They don't want to hear the words that will make everything right. They simply want to be heard.
I want so much to give the gift of listening and silence to those who give me the gift of their words and trust.
Do you have a word for the year? I'd love to hear about it!
Blessings,
Linda
