And then I totally forgot about it.
I had said I was determined to make a difference - great or small. I don't know if I did. But 2017 is not going to be 2016.
In the United States, we have an incoming administration that is scaring many of us. Hate is on the rise. Minorities are fearful.
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| Hand of Man, Owego, New York, 2015 |
The angels of our world seem to be in short supply, and powerless.
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| from Hanukkah House museum, Binghamton, NY 2012 |
Those of us who choose a #WOTY (Word of the Year) are making our choices. There are so many good words to choose from - love, happiness, explore, simplicity, daring greatly, enable, gratitude, and more. They are all good words. When I thought of mine, this word popped up right away.
We need, for 2017..... Determination
Perhaps I chose my word a year early. NOW is the time for determination.
DETERMINATION - not to stay silent if speaking out against hatred is needed.
DETERMINATION - to stand up against events that need standing up against. I think about authors who have written books that have changed the world. It is possible. I must remember that one person CAN make a difference. Could a blog post change the world?
DETERMINATION - to make my voice heard if the quality of life of my brother in law, who is developmentally disabled, is threatened.
DETERMINATION - once again, that I will grow my writing, and my photography, no matter what my personal challenges are this year. Even if it only grows a little, it will be a victory.
Today, I link with #FridayReflections at Everyday Gyaan and Laurel at Alphabet Salad.
Will you join us? Have you picked a word for 2017?
Tomorrow, I join the Ultimate Blog Challenge. Let's see what determination can do.
To all my readers, near and far: HAPPY NEW YEAR!
I have never chosen a woty. But, when asked to describe myself in one word, I always choose Survivor. And that is what I will try to do in the coming year - survive. Happy New Year.
ReplyDeleteI agree so much! The world is being ruled by fear rather than compassion.
ReplyDeleteHi Alana,
ReplyDeleteI think my word for the year is minimalism. I'm so busy, I need to figure out how to do less. I think that starts with my V.A. Happy New Year to you.
Janice
My word is "Hand up" people don't need a hand slap down.
ReplyDeleteCoffee is on
Hi Alana, I have not chosen a WOTY in the past. However, the way you have described it here is certainly inspirational. From what I've learned about you since finding your blog (only a short time ago) I would say DETERMINATION has been evident in your success in many ways, including blogging. I certainly agree with you that 2017 is going to be a year of challenges. I have been trying to find the best way to move forward in the new year and I think you’ve given me an essential element. Thank you. Happy New Year to you and yours.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree that the time for determination has come. I actually had occasion yesterday to speak out against hatred, and though I'm not sure I got through to the individual it was the right thing to do. Glad you and others are determined too!
ReplyDeleteNah, I don't do words of the year. Or resolutions. I like to be able to make a new beginning anytime.
ReplyDeletePerhaps one will come to me tomorrow. But one person can certainly make a difference.
ReplyDeleteWishing you and your family a Happy and Prosperous New Year!
ReplyDeleteDetermination is a good word. Thank goodness for those with determination who strived and those who strive to make our planet a better place. Wishing you an awesome 2017.
ReplyDeleteDetermination seems apt enough for a woty. As for myself, I'd like my woty to be explore! That's what I specially need to do the coming year, to explore the possibilities within me and all that is around me. With a new life in college, I can't think f anything better. :) Happy new year anyway Alana !
ReplyDeleteDetermination is a good word for the year! I hope you have a wonderful 2017 and your determination takes you where you want to be!
ReplyDeleteWhen I first heard about WOTY I thought it was silly and just another gimmick. But the job I was at requied that we pick one and share it. Surprisingly, it did help me focus that year. Determination is the word I've chosen to guide me this year as well.
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