During the Christmas break, I watched a re-airing of the movie version of the children’s classic novel, Charlotte’s Web. It is a charming fictional tale of a friendship between a spider and a pig.

In order to save Wilbur the pig from the butcher shop, Charlotte spins words into her silk web. With each word – “Some Pig“, “Terrific“, “Radiant” and “Humble” – Charlotte invites everyone to see the runt in the most positive light until it finally leads to Wilbur’s pardon.

Charlotte’s choice of words had the power to change Wilbur’s life.  Her words shaped and ultimately saved his life.

Today is New Year’s Eve and on social media many people are reflecting on the One Word that will define, direct and/or drive the 365 days of 2018.  It is no simple task to select the perfect word for the unknown path ahead.

As an amateur logophile, I am not at a loss for words; for example:

 

However in looking back at the awesome encounters and experiences of 2017, I have opted for my default one word.  Scrolling through the hundreds of photographs taken over the past year, I am amazed by the interesting, intriguing and inspiring people I have met.  Check out this album of faces.

Behind every smile is a story.

Even though I am sharing the frame with others, I am seeing more of my authentic self in these photographs.

Certain photographs capture when I was catapulated out of my comfort zone.  With the unparalleled support of persons like @gabrielpillay1, I waged war and won against my insecurities and doubts.   Fighting debilitating stage fright and residues of a childhood speech impediment,  I did not succumb to imposter syndrome and accepted invitations to speak publicly including a total of three ignites and eleven province-wide workshops.

Significantly  I am learning to evict the negative voices of people who are taking up space but not paying rent in my head.

So what is my one word? It would make sense for it to be “smile” or “yes”  or “speak” but instead I am going with “Hello” for the third year in a row (read these blog posts: Hello Stranger and Hello Brick Road).

Hello: Here & Everywhere Love Learning from Others

And it is not just because I already have the swag:

Every “hello” will be an invitation to learn more about myself.  With every “hello“, I am not journeying towards the end of 12 months but to who I am called to be. Therefore I am eager to find more people who will challenge me, call me to be courageous, and compel me to be my best self.

Like Wilbur, I need more Charlottes in my life who see the “miracle” that is me.

And with gratitude to all of my Wilburs over the past year: “You made me your friend. And in doing so, you made (me) beautiful to everyone…“

Happy New Year!

Salutations!

Hello!