I’ve been debating what word to choose for this year, as Christine discusses.

I first thought about choosing “change” as my word. Doing so could encompass all of the things I want to do in the new year. However as I thought more about it, for me, choosing change would be at the “do” level and not the “be” level.

Next I thought about choosing the word discipline. Who doesn’t want to have a little more discipline to finish what you start. But, it still didn’t feel right.

Finally, I’ve settled on the word “breathe” for 2009. Without the breath, nothing is possible, and with the breath, there are no limits to what I might accomplish at the core level.

In Start Where You Are, Pema Chodron talks about noticing the breath as a starting point to more compassionate living.

I’m staring right here, anew, breathing deeply and optimistic about what the new year will bring.

Happy New Year to you all!!!