Embracing Something New

Last year at this time I started a new tradition: instead of making a list of resolutions, I would pick one word to live by for the coming year. Last year's word was embrace.

I selected that word because I wanted to teach myself to embrace moments...to love a moment in the present without borrowing from the past or looking to the future. For me, it meant savoring a moment in real time.

After living with the word for a year, I learned that embracing a moment leaves no room for anxiety, or regret, or even stress.

This year, after a few days of soul searching, I finally selected a phrase that (and this is a little embarrassing) I heard in the Twilight sequel, New Moon: "Learn to love what's good for you."

Removed from the context of the movie, I realized that I could apply this to my life on so many different levels.

Physically, this means that every time I choose to walk, run, lift weights, or eat a healthy meal then I am loving what is good for me.

Emotionally, when I love, forgive, or show compassion, then I am loving what is good for me.

Spiritually, when I choose to find the time to pray, read something inspiring, or see the good in others then I am loving what is good for me.

Intellectually, when I appreciate a good book, listen to good music, or create something artistic then I am loving what is good for me.

So this year my goal is this: not simply learn to do what is good for me, but learn to love what is good for me.

It's an idea I think I'll embrace.