I'm Thinking of a Word.....

For several years, I picked a word intended to be my mantra for the coming year.  I have to say that  I wasn't as dedicated to the purpose of this practice as I might have been.  That changed last year.  After my sister's death, I selected "attitude".  I wanted to remind myself that so many elements of my life are affected -- positively and negatively -- by the attitude with which I approach them.

I think it worked. I believe became more aware of how I responded to things and adjusted my attitude when it warranted it.

And then I forgot to set a word this past January.  But as I reflect on the year I think my mantra (retro-actively of course) would have to have been gratitude.   It follows well on the heels of "attitude".  With the right attitude it's much easier to practice gratitude, to see the good whenever I can.  I've tried to be more cognizant of all I have to be thankful for.

With all this in mind I've selected "perspective" for 2016.  I want to keep things in perspective, to be honest about the value of some things and the drain from others.  To realize what really should cause me stress and what shouldn't.  To acknowledge and make choices based on the fact my life is pretty sweet.   Kvetching should be kept to a minimum.  I want to be realistic about what I can and cannot do.  And I want to approach things with a good attitude -- even the things I'd rather not do -- and be thankful for the opportunities I do have.

What do you think?  Will you select a word for the new year?