For several years I’ve chosen a “Word of the Year” to give myself focus and direction for the year ahead. Last year I selected the word “Simplicity”. I wanted to strip away some excess in several areas of my life. I made a bit of progress in that area and it’s an ongoing quest.
I began thinking about what word I would choose for 2019 several weeks ago. I knew I wanted to focus on health and wellness but neither of those words felt right. Maybe it’s because I was a nurse but those words feel rather clinical to me and I wanted something that spoke to my soul. Then I listened to a podcast by The Productive Woman (I did an interview with her a couple of years ago) and she was talking about choosing a word of the year. She said that it could be a single word, a phrase or even a song. A song!
I immediately knew what mine would be.
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You see, part of the driving force behind my decision to focus on health and wellness stems from witnessing my parents’ declining health in recent years. It’s been sad and sobering to see what poor health has done to them in terms of life satisfaction. For one thing, they used to love to travel but are no longer able to do so. I still have so many places I want to explore and I don’t want my health to be a limiting factor.
But there’s more to it than simply being physically healthy. And that’s why the words health or wellness didn’t adequately express my focus for this year (and beyond!). I want to stay healthy and vibrant in my mind and soul, as well. That’s why I’ve chosen Bob Dylan’s song, Forever Young, as my Word/Song of the Year.
Forever Young
Forever Young is such a special song. My dad read it at my engagement party, almost exactly 2 years ago. 18 months later, I played it his funeral. Dylan just understood life, didn’t he?
Absolutely. I’m sorry about your dad. 🙁
Great choice!
Thanks!
What a lovely choice for 2019, Dee. I, too, did not want to deteriorate as my mum did. However, her life was so hard, and she made a choice when she was younger, to bring up her young children well, rather than follow her own dreams. Which I am truly grateful for. Unfortunately, it really was hard financially, mentally, emotionally, physically, and she worked afternoons and at nights. With 8 children. What an amazing woman. We are so lucky that we live in easier times. (thank you Universe). May you stay Young Forever, Dee xxxx
She sounds like an incredible woman. I’d like to hear more about her if you would like to share sometime.