“What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, and hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal and that every path may lead to peace.” – Agnes M. Pahro

As 2019 winds down and we usher in a new decade, I am reflecting on what the year has brought and how I practiced and experienced SHALOM, my word for the year.  For me, Shalom represented more than just peace; it was about wholeness and healing. Both happened in various forms throughout the year – from continued deep, inner work and meditation to acupuncture and yoga.

What I didn’t expect was that Shalom also included expansion. So while I continued to REFRESH and ADVENTURE and move ONWARD (my previous 3 annual words), I occupied new spaces and attempted new ways of being. 

Like the beautiful tradition of Dia de los Muertos that I experienced as part of a friend’s 40th birthday trip, there was a celebration of the things that have died – both things I’ve let go of purposefully as well as things taken from me.

There was an acknowledgement that grieving shows up unexpectedly and painfully, and yet is so helpful in the way it creates emotional margin.

There was the embracing of new business opportunities like starting a career coaching program to help full-time professionals launch freelance careers (check out rachelkgroup.com/coaching for more deets).

There was an opening of my heart to love again and all that comes with it.

And there was an unearthing of faith that allows the mysteries of God to feel much more like home. 

It wasn’t all merry and bright, but it was everything I needed and more: healing, wholeness, expansion. 

As we enter into the 20’s (is that what we’ll call it?), I wish you much Shalom, whatever and however that needs to show up in your world.

[Photos: Jackson Hole, Banff, Virgina]