Hi friend–
A Word of the Year, defined by Elizabeth Rider is, “…your constant (yet gentle) reminder to focus on creating positive change [throughout the year]”. This practice has become pivotal in my yearly routine. In previous years, words like grace and shalom were used to anchor my days. As for 2025, the word that has pressed my heart is agape.
Agape [uh-gah’pay]: An unconditional love not concerned with self-gain. This love can be shared between friends, family, lovers, strangers, or enemies.
Our world is in turmoil; we are more divided than ever. Our disagreements can stem from something as small as football rivalries or as grandiose as turbulent global events. Bitterness, resentment, and rejection often bubble in our hearts when we are confronted with people who are “Not Like Us” *looking at you, Kendrick*. This isn’t it. Learning to love people unconditionally whether we like them or not, agree with them or not, or understand them is an essential feature in this thing we call life.
Humans are complex beings with desires, dreams, and fears that paint a mosaic that is almost as complicated as us. You are not going to like everyone; not everyone is going to like you. Does that mean they (or we) are any less worthy of love? Absolutely not. Even if someone is challenging or confusing, they are still valuable beyond measure *looking at you, Drake*.
So back to my word of the year – agape. Agape embodies a distinct need for us to look beyond what separates us and cherish each other as human beings. This is a challenge, one I am determined to overcome. Check back next year to see how this goes. 😬
Shalom,
Tay