Last year I was inspired by Ali Edwards to choose One Little Word for 2009.

My word was “Do.”

I chose the word by instinct more than anything else.  But it somehow felt like the right word.

The time was right to roll up my sleeves.  The time was right to create.  Time was right for elbow grease and putting ideas into action.  It was time to “Do.”  And as the year progressed the word “Do” took on new meaning and fulfillment.  I created “Make it Do” and have loved putting into action my thoughts and ideas.  2009 has been a year for doing.

As I pondered my new word for 2010, I went back to Ali Edwards blog.  I reread what she had written back in January 2007.  Here is what she says about One Little Word:

A single word can be a powerful thing. It can be the ripple in the pond that changes everything. It can be sharp and biting or rich and soft and slow.

It can be something tangible or intangible. It could be a thought or a feeling or an emotion. It can be singular or plural. The key is to find something that has personal meaning for you. This is not your mother’s word or your spouse’s word or your child’s word – this is YOUR word.

One little word can have big meaning in your life if you allow yourself to be open to the possibilities. And here’s one thing that is totally interesting: sometimes a word will pop into your brain and it will not make any sense to you right now. Give it some time. Let it percolate a bit. I have often found that our hearts speak to us in very unique ways. Maybe this is a word you need to hear but just aren’t ready for it yet. Again, be open to the possibilities.

Choosing my One Little Word is different from setting a goal or making resolutions.  Somehow “Do” was more powerful for me than those resolutions that started strong and fizzled when life got too busy.  My one little word stayed with me throughout the year.  It continued to inspire me, even when I felt tired or overwhelmed.  “Do” acted like a beacon to guide me on my way.

So choosing my one little word was important this year…. knowing how important it was last year.  And as I pondered what the word should be, again and again one word kept coming back:

GROW

I know the full meaning of my word will only be revealed as the year unfolds… but for now Grow means developing my talents and endeavors.  Grow means becoming a better writer and photographer.  Grow means pushing myself toward my dreams and goals.

Grow means working to become a wiser, better mother and wife.  It means helping my children become the best they can be.  A wise friend once told me “As a mother, you will never make a daisy into a rose… or a rose into a daisy.  Discover what kind of flower your child is, and help them grow into the best daisy or rose they can be.”

Grow also means supporting my husband as he strives to grow his business and career.

It also means growing spiritually.  It means finding the ways I can help make the world around me a better place.

Grow means becoming a better daughter, sister, aunt and friend.

I can’t wait to see what Grow becomes this year, even if it means growing pains… I hope it Grows into something beautiful.

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