A Word from ...

Joy

Hello QWERTY Friends!

You probably know the last half of 2022 was not smooth sailing for me. Three too many funerals and other complications sent many of my plans and priorities heeling in the gales.

(FYI: "Heeling" is a nautical term that is, indeed, used when a sailboat leans over in the water, pushed by the wind. "The More You Know" ... am I right?)

I am grateful to share that my 2023 has started off strong and steady. My health has regained its proper priority, and I am checking off the massive to-do list.

Last week, I shared a blog post for the first time in more than two years: "Creative Health Focus." I'll link to it below if you're interested, but one part specifically stood out. Mea sent me a sweet note and shared this portion on her social media, and I thought it might benefit you.

For context, I shared what good came from my health focus "heeling," and this was the point that stood out the most.

First, I learned again how important grace is in our lives. After my mother’s funeral on December 10, I chose to allow myself grace through the holidays. Another time in my life, I would have beat myself up; I would have tried to keep everything going as it was. Instead, I recognized the need for a season of grace and rest.

As I reflected on that truth earlier this week, a few things struck me about what grace is not.

Grace is not giving up. It is not giving yourself an excuse. Grace is a gift we can allow ourselves when the season requires our focus and priorities to shift.

Today, I would add that grace, used properly, is a great gift. I am thankful I opened that gift and used it for those few weeks because I have been able to sail ahead on glassy seas into this new year.

I love this QWERTY Writing Life!