When I was thinking of my word for June, I chose ‘commitment’. If you recall, my word for May was ‘Focus‘. Both these words flow out of my word of the year, which is ‘Yes’.
Commitment In June
I wrote this post at the start of this month in my notebook but I’m sharing this now since I had stepped away from personal writing here for about a month.
Once again I turn to Emily P Freeman’s questions to review the previous month and plan for the next one.
Looking Back On May
What was your favourite photograph from May?
My favourite photograph (a video actually) is of Lucky sitting outside and watching the world go by.
After Pablo’s passing, we were worried about her – she was ill and seemed depressed. But she’s overcome that. She’s made her own little routine and although she clearly misses Pablo, she has moved on.
To me, this is symbolic of what is happening in the world around me. We’re all learning to cope with the passing of friends and family. We’re learning to be strong. It’s a mixture of grief and gratitude that we are experiencing – sadness and so many tears at the passing of loved ones, gratitude for their lives, and gratitude to be alive!
A thoughtful moment in May
There were several moments. Especially when I write my Morning Pages, I have a lot of time for reflection. But one thing that stands out for me from May, is a conversation I had with José. We were talking about various events in the past and some decisions we made in a hurry. Then José shared something that I could have interpreted as criticism of me. Honestly, until a few months ago, I wouldn’t have taken it well. I found myself really listening, understanding and accepting. I know there was no anger from his side, only facts, and I accepted it in the right spirit. That’s a big change I see in me, and I’m grateful for the growth and the ability to accept the truth even when it’s difficult.
What’s something that you look forward to in June?
Creating. Writing a lot. I’m rediscovering the joys of writing all my posts by hand first. (I love fountain pens, so it’s an excuse to get some more!) Also I’ve started work on some course outlines and hope to offer them soon on The Frangipani Creative. I’m also looking forward to having my podcast published every Wednesday ( the first episode of the new series The A to Z of Creativity is out already. Go here to have a listen).
My mind is constantly churning out ideas and I am learning to capture them better.
Learning. I’m committed to change and growth and have made a sizeable monetary investment in my learning. I’m excited to read, listen and and practice what I learn.
As I look on the month of May, I realize that although I had every intention to Focus and did a good job of prioritising what I wanted to do during the month, I didn’t actually commit to this enough. So I’m choosing Commitment for June.
Committing to creating more, practicing more, and saying ‘Yes’ to the opportunities available to me. I’m going to remind myself of Jean-Paul Sartre’s words.
Commitment is an act, not a word!
Jean-Paul Sartre
Today I’m linking in with Lisa Burgess’ One Word Link up and Anita Ojeda’s Inspire Me Monday link up.
This does seem like a good idea, choosing a word for every month and then working around it.
I feel sad for Lucky. Hugs to the little girl. <3 How she must miss Pablo, but how strong she is to accept life as it is and learn to move on, holding on to his memories and finding joy in what she has. There is so much we humans can learn from dogs, isn't it?
The monthly choice of word is helping make the WOTY more do-able, Shilpa.
I agree – there’s so much we can learn from our dogs!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..What would you like to offer the world?
I like the word commitment. It’s a good word for June. To me it shows strength and solidity. Something we need during this covid crisis. Great word. Here’s hoping you achieve all the goals you’re committed to in June.
Thank you, Lisa. Yes, life seems a little harder these days and it’s easy to get a bit ‘lost’ but doing this exercise every month helps.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..I Wonder Who She Is
Corinne, I’m so happy for you in this season of creating. Thank you for your thoughts on focus and commitment, I appreciate your insights.
Lisa Blair recently posted..Humility – One of 8 Garments to Wear
Hi Corinne
Greatest intentions seems to take a backseat when unexpected things happen. I try to commit and stay focused but things don’t always go as planned. Do have lists and that helps to bring me back from the distractions. Sometimes it is a job that I have been offered, or projects that need special attention. Lists help a lot. Losing loved ones , people or pets does take you off tract. It always seems to take a time for healing from loses.
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Commitment is an action fueled by choice . I love fountain pens, too, but I don’t think I could write everything out long-hand—I type much faster. May God bless you as you act out your commitments!
The look and feel of the blog look amazing. I guess we can all learn from Lucky how to move ahead in life. Commitment is something we all struggle with. I am glad that you chose it as the word of the month.
Learning to cope with grief is definitely a skill we all need to be practicing in one way or another. I saw a quote this weekend that said, “We are taught how to acquire things, not how to lose them.” I’ve been thinking about it ever since.
I’m impressed that you’re writing your posts by hand first! That does require commitment for sure. So glad you linked up at One Word, Corinne. I love getting these glimpses into your month.
I really like how you’re choosing a word for each month, related to your WOTY. Such a good way to really anchor into that word!
Modern Gyspy recently posted..On my art table: The Bridge
Cory, what an endearing shot of Lucky, and you at work.
Love the outdoors as much as you do.
And I’m glad how things have been good and loveable at your end.
Big hugs xo
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