Every year, I pick a watchword to focus on. This year, it was GRACE.
As I said in January, “Merriam Webster has several definitions for grace, including: ‘a disposition to show kindness or compassion; disposition to or an act or instance of kindness, courtesy, or clemency; the quality or state of being considerate or thoughtful; mercy; charity.’ Those are all qualities I hope to practice this year.”
How did I do? I had many opportunities to practice grace when dealing with other people. I was successful most of the time—I’m human.
I showed grace when talking with people I disagreed with, which was one of my goals. Sometimes, I tried to educate them without being judgmental. Other times, I simply chose my battles and decided not to make a big deal of the situation.
I also showed grace when dealing with friends and family. I focused on being kind and supportive. I said the things I’d want someone to say to me.
The biggest challenge for me was in showing grace to myself. It’s easy for me to notice all my mistakes and beat myself up over them. (Case in point: I berated myself for forgetting to write and schedule this post yesterday, and had to forgive myself for getting it up late today.) I am trying to practice grace by reminding myself that the world will keep turning if I am not checking off all my to-do list perfectly. I am still working on this.
I hope that you find grace in your own life, in your own actions and in other people. If you have similar challenges to mine, try to practice grace for yourself, too. It’s okay to be human. You are worthy, just as you are. I’m pulling for you.
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