I keep hearing online about people who choose a word for the year. I’ve never been good at it, either trying too hard to get the perfect word that I run out of determination or picking one but forgetting it before the month ends!

This year, however, a word just kind of slapped me in the face — Freedom! I can’t remember where I saw it, but I remember the feeling of thinking, that’s my word! I can’t promise I’ll remember it at the end of the month, but for now, that’s it.

Why? Because it is illusive enough to capture my attention. What is it like to have freedom, especially when you are carrying the load of knowing you have a disease? What does it mean to be medically responsible yet feel free? Is it freedom from disease or freedom in spite of disease?

Why else? Because it is inspirational. Who wouldn’t want to be free when they feel trapped? Isn’t that what we all long for?

And why else? Because freedom is a word that evokes emotion. It’s not just a condition or fact, but there is a feeling that comes along with it. I remember seeing a short video on X (previously Twitter) of a dog let off of its leash, thrashing around in the snow, hopping like a bunny. Even if I can’t define what freedom is, I know the feeling.

We don’t know where this year is going to take us or where the word “freedom” will fit into my life, but at least I’m thinking about it, desiring it for the year to come. How about you?

Think about/Comment: Is there a word or concept that captures your mind for this year?  How does it give you hope?