2026
Word(s) for the Year
DIFFERENT | SAME
I’ve been thinking about what my word for the year was going to be and over the Christmas holiday, after saying for the millionth time “this year things are so different”, I decided that was my word. DIFFERENT. Things ARE so different. I’m going through a season of life I wasn’t prepared for. I feel like every other season has just gradually evolved to the next stage and I was ready for that change in my life when it came - empty nest, our boys getting married, becoming grandparents, even turning 60. But this past year has been the biggest roller coaster ride ever. One day Mom and Dad were living right next door and the next day it all changed, and I know I (we) will never have those days back again and it’s just so hard. We’ve made decisions differently, celebrated differently, everything just feels different and it is. With the holidays approaching, all I could think about was how different things would be this Christmas, and they were, yet somehow my tree still brought me the same joy it always does, I still enjoyed wrapping gifts for everyone, I found happiness watching the grandkids open their presents, I enjoyed preparing the food and gathering with my family, I got to see Mom and Dad over the holiday, we still celebrated Mom’s birthday with a little party, Peter and I still carried on with our traditions like watching the Candlelight service together, and cooking dinner on Christmas Day. Most importantly I realized that no matter our circumstances or how much things change, GOD never changes.
“He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever” - Hebrews 13:8
His mercy, grace, goodness, faithfulness, love, He just makes so many things in life bearable and even enjoyable.
I had dreaded Christmas but I found myself many times over the past few weeks with my heart just so full and happy. I am so thankful for the blessings in my life. Thank you Lord, that while things are so DIFFERENT, you always remain the SAME. ♥️
