“Growth is the sacred risk of becoming—choosing to rise, stretch, and root deeper into what matters.” — Leslie Noble

Opening

Every January, the world buzzes with resolutions—lists of goals, promises, and self‑improvements. Yet resolutions often fade, leaving us discouraged. What if instead of resolutions, we chose a word—a single guiding intention—that shapes how we live, love, and grow in the year ahead?

Last year, my word was Action. It reminded me to move forward, to step into courage, and to trust momentum. This year, I’m still listening for the word that wants to guide me. Choosing a word is not about pressure—it’s about alignment.

Why a Word Instead of Resolutions

Resolutions often feel like rules. A word feels like a companion.

• Spiritual depth: A word becomes a prayer, a mantra, a compass.

• Flexibility: Unlike resolutions, a word adapts to life’s changes.

• Embodiment: It’s not about doing more—it’s about being more of what matters.

• Integration: A word can touch every area of life—relationships, work, health, creativity—without needing separate lists.

A word is not a checklist—it’s a way of living.

The Spiritual Practice of Choosing a Word

Across traditions, words carry power:

• In Christianity, “In the beginning was the Word…” reminds us that words create worlds.

• In Buddhism, mantras anchor the mind in peace.

• In Judaism, blessings sanctify ordinary moments with sacred intention.

• In Indigenous traditions, spoken words are woven with spirit, carrying energy into community and creation.

And in modern contemplative practice, Richard Rohr—a Franciscan priest, author, and founder of the Center for Action and Contemplation—encourages choosing a single sacred word in prayer. He teaches that this word becomes a symbol of your intention to consent to God’s presence. Returning gently to the word during silence helps us rest in love, beyond thoughts or striving.

“A sacred word is not magic—it is a doorway. It reminds us to return to presence, again and again.” — Richard Rohr

Sidebar: Resolutions vs. Word

• Resolutions: Often rigid, focused on outcomes, and easy to abandon when life shifts.

• Word: Flexible, spacious, and rooted in spirit. It adapts, guides, and sustains.

Richard Rohr’s contemplative approach reminds us: a word is not about achievement—it’s about consent, presence, and becoming.

How to Find Your Word

1. Reflect: Ask yourself—what do I most need right now? What do I long to feel?

2. Listen: Notice what words keep showing up—in conversations, readings, even dreams.

3. Test: Say the word aloud. Does it feel like a friend, a challenge, or a calling?

4. Claim: Write it down, place it somewhere visible, and let it guide your choices.

Dividing the Year by Your Word

You can deepen the practice by letting your word unfold in seasons:

• Winter: Plant the seed—what does this word mean to you?

• Spring: Nurture growth—how can you practice it daily?

• Summer: Live it boldly—where can you embody it in relationships and work?

• Fall: Harvest—reflect on how the word has shaped you, and what you’ve learned.

My Word Last Year: Action

For me, 2025 was a year of bold Action. I got my story published, released a poem, grew my business, and became more physically active with yoga, martial arts, and walking. I built a consistent meditation practice, explored energy healing, and deepened my work with Internal Family Systems to provide more quality care.

I spent time with friends and family, learned to diamond paint, read widely (with a stack still waiting), and expanded my offerings in ways that felt both challenging and rewarding. It sounds exhausting when I list it all—but that was the point. I wanted this to be a year of bold action, and it was.

I’m still pondering my word for next year. (maybe "rest"...just kidding). Whatever it is, I know I want it to carry growth. Because growth is not just about achievement—it’s about becoming more of who we are meant to be.

Possible Words for the Year

Here are some words to inspire your own journey:

• Presence – to live fully in each moment.

• Peace – to cultivate calm and acceptance.

• Trust – to rest in faith, even when uncertain.

• Courage – to step into new challenges.

• Renewal – to embrace fresh beginnings.

• Joy – to celebrate small and ordinary moments.

• Balance – to hold both rest and effort.

• Hope – to keep the door cracked open.

Reflection Exercise

Take a few minutes with a candle or journal.

• Ask: What do I most long to feel this year?

• Write down three words that come to mind.

• Circle the one that feels most alive.

• Let this word guide you—not as a demand, but as a gentle reminder of who you want to become.

Closing Blessing

This New Year, may you choose a word that lights your path. May it be a quiet strength, a steady reminder, and a spiritual anchor. And may it carry you through the seasons with hope, resilience, and joy.

Happy New Year, dear friends. I’m sending much love and gratitude to those I have the honor of serving and walking alongside. You matter. May hope and growth guide you into 2026. I’ll be taking some much‑needed time off from writing until after January 1st—but I look forward to returning with fresh energy and vision in the new year....Hugs...Leslie