Tuesday, January 4, 2011

A word for the New Year (or maybe two)

Last year I chose 'bold' as my word. Well, I did not always act boldly, but I am getting better, I think.

This year I choose 'presence'. Not 'presence' as in 'imposing', but presence as in 'being present'. Here, now, in the moment, paying attention, taking in and living each experience as fully as possible. Bringing something of myself to each experience and encounter. Less multitasking; less speed; quality rather than quantity.

On being asked what my resolutions for the new year were, I told a friend that rather than making a list of resolutions, I will focus on one word - 'presence'. 'Oh golly,' she enthused, 'that is rather nice! What a marvellous word! Good for you! So what did you get?'

Hmmmm.  I patiently explained my word. 'Presence ...  you know .... as in being present ...?'

'Ooooooooooh,' she said, disappointed. 'I thought you said  presents.'

Jolly good idea. So I immediately went out and bought myself a New Year's present - a beautiful vintage Kuba cloth from the Congo.
 
I should probably get her something too ...

8 comments:

Leenie said...

Hehe. It looks like you have made a good start...being in the now, aware of the beauty in that vintage cloth and getting yourself a present. A wise choice of word.

Le 'usband said...

You said: I should probably get her something too ...

Get her a Congo cloth from Kuba!

Linda Sue said...

a present every day is a GOOD idea! The Kuba cloth is interesting- never have i seen Kuba cloth. Do they dye using indigo or is it recycled denim material? curious...
My present for the day is waiting for the repair man to come a fix our NEW dryer...I must be present for that...otherwise I may go out seeking a present- which could be anything from Dexter's rear end to a stone on the beach...it's the simple things.

Esti said...

hello there!

thanks for your postcard. I'm not sure if you got my email; I had some troubles sending it.

Anyway, i like your word, and i like the idea of having a word for each year. I have only made one resolution this year: to be brave.

Happy new Year!

Anonymous said...

Don't you just love the English language! I hope that lots of presents come into your presence!

arcadia said...

So waar. Ek hoop jou pogings tot presence vorder voor die wind.

Anonymous said...

And some presents are always present... On that note, I'm still reading your birthday book '8 Steps to Happiness'... happy new year A! Lots of love and see you soon x

Quilting By Celia said...

After you chose "Presence" as the word and concept, everything else in your life will be 'coloured' by that. I'm going to follow your blog.