As 2014 draws to a close,
and I reflect back on the past twelve months, I’m left with a sense
of stagnation and underachievement. Flicking through the pages of my
journal the reason is clear, for a theme of constant pain screams loudly
from its pages.
There has been an MRI, x-rays, degenerated and herniated discs, sciatica, facial nerve pain, migraines,
night sweats, night terrors, blood tests, chiropractors, physical therapy,
steroid injections, weight gain, tiredness, anger and frustration.
Interestingly, the word I
chose for 2014 was 'Breathe' and there were definitely times when it was as
simple as that . . . all I could do to carry me forward . . . and in the
breathing I found resilience, a welcome travel companion.
Despite all this, wonderful
moments managed to weave their way through the year too like publishing my
first book of poetry, celebrating 15 years of marriage, going to my first ever
concert, a visit to the UK and time spent with family.
Each New Year brings possibility
and renewed hope, a blank slate, and I wanted to choose a word that would
encourage movement, change and growth. Noticing a white feather by my side gave me an idea. I wrote words on pieces of paper, folded them up and threw them in the air . . . the one which landed closest
to the feather would be my chosen word and it couldn’t have been more
perfect. So the word that will accompany
me throughout 2015 is:
transform
: to change in form, appearance or character
Have you chosen your word yet?
"Transform" has so many possibilities! I haven't chosen a word yet.
ReplyDeleteI haven't chosen my word, but I like the way you did it! Quite a wonderful word you chose, too. Here's to better health for you in the coming year. xox
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry that you've had so much pain this year, but so grateful you were able to find beauty in the in between. I don't normally struggle with a word, but I have so many I want to use that I need a "phrase" this year, haha. Or I may have to invent a new word that encompasses many. I like how you chose your word, may have to try that! xo Happy New Year to you Kathryn!
ReplyDeleteThank you, hoping you find a word to carry you through 2015. Wishing you and your family much health and happiness. x
DeleteYep, forgot to say how much I love your photo!
ReplyDeleteThanks Kim, that was the actual feather I used. :)
DeleteI do hope that 2015 is one of transformation for you Kathryn...and that the new year brings with it better health and more creativity. All the best to you always!!
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine living with such constant pain - you are an inspiration in your dogged refusal to give up, to keep breathing and to still create, even in the face of such difficulties. I am glad there was so much to celebrate as well. I am eager to witness your year of transformation.
ReplyDeleteThanks Brenda . . . hoping it's a great year for all of us.
DeleteI haven't even thought to choose a word for the year. Transform seems to have been my journey since my car accident in 2006. May this be a wonderful year!!
ReplyDeleteTransform is a suitable world ... perhaps, we are all looking for a change :-)
ReplyDeleteHave a great 2015.
Great post and beautiful photo. Happy 2015.
ReplyDeletei hope that it is atransformative year for you...that is one of those dangerous ones...as the rebirthing is not always pleasant but well worth it in the after....smiles
ReplyDeletehappy new year.
Transform.. yes that would be a great word.. maybe sustain would be my choice.. so hard to live with those pains.
ReplyDeletewhat an awesome idea for setting a new year intention. :)
ReplyDeletetransformation is fluid...we are steadily changing and morphing.
wishing you have beautiful start to a new year!
i have missed your writings...reverb dominated my december and the flu has had my january thus far, i can't wait to start writing again as well.
Such a beautiful way to choose your word for 2015 :)
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you have had a big struggle thru 2014 (one I can totally relate too) but you seem such a resilient person and take time to enjoy the moments, you inspire me thru all of your creativity :)
Wishing you a "TRANSFORMATIVE" 2015 :) Cheers, T. :)