Give Me A Word
The power of words has long been an interest and a curiosity of mine.
Sometime ago I learned about the ancient Desert mothers and fathers, the ammas and abbas. Apparently they were early Christian hermits, ascetics and mystics who lived before Jesus in the deserts of Egypt, Palestine, Syria and Arabia. Their lives consisted of intense spiritual discipline, fasting, prayer and labor. They purposely sought a radical transformation into deeper Love...listening for the sacred word of mystery from within to help them grow.
It is written in the stories about these Desert mothers and fathers that a novice would approach one of them saying “Give me a word.” This was not a request for a solution or counseling or a theological explanation. The disciple knew the word that was given would be specific to him or her at this moment and season in his or her life. The word would be a stimulus to grow into a fuller life. It is written that it was not unusual for the disciple to focus on that one word for years to deepen into the meaning of it.
While I didn't know about “Give me a word” 6 years ago when my husband died, I was an unknowing disciple of their word gift. In the depths of my grief when a sentence, an affirmation or a mantra was too much for my brain to hold ...I had the idea if I could just have a word...just one word... on which to focus and know deeply I could keep moving forward.
So every year I have chosen a word...well not really chosen, but was given one as I opened up the space to receive it. Sometimes the word came through something I read, an image I saw, an experience I had or something I heard in conversation or the stillness of my life. My first year word was grace and boy did I need that. Followed by courage, believe, possibilities, inspired and this year freedom. I know this is a gift I will continue to give myself every year I'm on the planet.
Words can be medicine that activates the healing of a wound that would not heal. Words can create trust, love and intimacy. They can also tear someone down, push them away and betray them. Through the daily opportunities, openings, chances and possibilities that show up in our lives it is important to be mindful of how we use the power of our words, isn't it?
Slipstream
What a great way to start the new year—a word as your guiding star, so to speak. I'm going to keep this in mind for the upcoming year.
There's no doubt words are very powerful so it's important how we use them with others and ourselves.
Thanks for your enlightening article 🌞
Present Valley
thank you for taking the time to reply.
As kindred spirits we know the power of words.
All the best in listening for your word for 2026.
Evangel
Thank you for this thoughtful, personal account of the inspiring words you received that have blessed your growth.
I think we are all, in our human experience, being asked to grow into a fuller life informed by a deeper love. Grace, it seems, is what we're all after and what is promised should we embark on such a journey. It won't always be easy, but it will be profoundly rewarding—as I'm sure you've discovered.
You might be interested in reading a book, "The Sayings Of The Desert Fathers." If so, I'd be happy to give it to you.
Present Valley
Thank you so much for your posting.
I would love, love, love to borrow the book. I have only read snipets of it. Of course you would have it. You are such a gift and inspiration!
Evangel
You are always so kind with your "word" -- thank you.❤️
Well Street
Thank you for sharing your insights and important message.
In Psychology 101, we're taught that a message (thought), when combined with emotion and repetition, creates a neural pathway unique to that message. When powerful enough, it influences how we behave and perceive ourselves. Sadly, these messages are often toxic and foster self-deprecating narratives.
As your experience illustrates, however, they can just as easily create positive momentum, growth, and blessings for us and others.
I appreciate this reminder of the power of our words and the importance of being mindful of how we use them.