New year. Same me.
You probably didn't notice, but I took a month off. 🤷🏼♀️
FRIENDS!
I took an unplanned month off from the newsletter and Growth & Grace Podhecticays were incredibly busy, and then I had multiple family emergencies. At first, I was beating myself up. I like to take advantage of the momentum that a new year brings. This year it didn’t happen, and that is okay.
Rest is essential. Pay attention to what your body needs as you move into new seasons, literally and figuratively.
I have officially started my Doctorate of Ministry program, and y’all — I am learning so much. I can’t wait to share with you here and on the podcast (A new episode is coming next week!)
In the meantime, know I’m thinking about you and praying for yoyou u.
p.s. I’d love it if want to respond to this email and check-in. Tell me how you’re doing… like really doing?
always grace,
Amber Lea Gray
2023 Word of the Year
Every year for the last decade or so I have picked a word of intention. I shared in December that my word for 2022 was wholeness. Going into 2022 I was in a season of fragmentation, and wanted a word that would ground me. I had no idea just how much grounding I would need.
For 2023, my word is Awake.
This year I want to slow down. I don’t want to have an end destination in mind. I want to enjoy the journey. I want to wake up in the areas of life I’ve been asleep (or sleep walking.)
Awake to the needs of my body.
Awake to areas of growth.
Awake to who God is calling me to be.
Awake to my most authentic self.
Awake to God’s grace at work in and through all things.
If this idea of having a word of intention is interesting to you, then download the worksheet below. It will walk you through choosing your own word.
Yes, I know it is January 24th. Who cares! We get to pick our own timelines. :)
Formational Question:
I believe that transformation happens when we allow ourselves to engage with good questions. Below is a question to aid you on your journey. Think about it, journal it, or talk about it with a friend. If you want, share your response in the comment section.
What are you spending the most time thinking about?