Which Words Resonate?

Hi Everyone,

As both a lettering artist and writer, words are extremely important to me. Small wonder then, that choosing a Word of the Year is a process I usually begin in November. This gives me ample time to reflect on where I am in my life’s journey, where I feel I’m falling short, and what I need in order to become my best self. I look for words which resonate, and since I am especially appreciative of alliteration, I often begin my search by picking a letter, and writing every uplifting word that I can think of which begins with that letter. Here are a couple of examples:

I created a 2019 Word of the Year Planner for those who are interested in trying my process. If you subscribe to the Live Zenspired Newsletter there is a link for a FREE download of a similar page that you can color and decorate while you ruminate on word options.

The words in the flower petals were ones I considered a few years ago. They evolved into a design which became such a popular greeting card that I added it as a print in my Etsy Shop: 

I also just uploaded a new, fun collection of mix and match rainbow hearts and squares:

Here’s a close up sample showing how they can be overlapped:

If you like inspiring sayings, digital downloads, card crafting, clip-art, and crafting, and haven’t had a chance to check out the new ZenspirationsDesigns Etsy Shop,  I’d love for you to see what goodies are there. I’d also welcome your opinion on what to add– please leave a comment and let me know what you’d like to see next!

Before closing tonight, I have my annual Christmas week request. While most of us look forward to the holidays, and enjoy spending time with family and friends, there are many people– especially those who have recently lost loved ones– for whom the holidays exacerbate feelings of sadness and loneliness. We can help those we care about during dark and challenging times by reaching out in love and letting them know that they haven’t been forgotten.

5 Simple Ways to Support Someone Who is Grieving this Holiday Season:

1. Understand that you can’t fix this. There isn’t anything you can say or do to bring the person who died back. All you can do is accompany your loved one on their grief journey.
2. Recognize that spending the holidays without someone who was an integral part of your life is incredibly difficult– especially if it’s the first time. If possible, invite the bereaved to get together during the holidays for a walk, a cup of coffee, or even holiday dinner. Even if they don’t accept, they will appreciate knowing that you cared enough to reach out to them.
3. Don’t be afraid to mention the name of there person who died, and to share stories about them. Contrary to public opinion, creating a safe space to talk about their loved one is usually NOT upsetting to the bereaved. They actually appreciate being able to talk about the person who died, as it is a way of keeping their loved one’s legacy alive.
4. Don’t expect someone to ‘get over it’ in a few weeks or months. The grieving process takes a LOT longer than you can possibly imagine if you haven’t gone through it yourself. It’s been seven years since my husband died, and not a day goes by that I don’t miss him. Even after all this time holidays can still be unexpectedly emotional.
5. Encourage the bereaved to feel their feelings and to not feel guilty if they are lucky enough to experience some happy moments during the holidays. If you are comfortable with tears, let them know they don’t have to pretend everything’s okay when they are with you, and that it’s okay to cry. Be sure to have a box of tissues– and a hug– handy.

I recently started a new website, www.WhenYouLoseSomeone.com, which has resources for people who are grieving, as well as those supporting them. Please share with anyone you know who could use a little extra support at this time of year.

Thank you for all you do to make a difference in the world!

Stay Zenspired,

Joanne