It’s only January 6 and I cannot believe the difference my one word resolution has made in this short amount of time.  There is a new sense of fullness to my life.  There is no secret to my word; I chose “engage”.  I simply wanted to play a more active role in my own life and the lives of others.

The word can be applied in various ways, but I have chosen to apply it as an intransitive verb (a doable action without a direct object receiving that action).  Gives my word a bit more freedom, don’t you think?

• to pledge oneself
• to begin and carry on an activity
• to take part
• to give attention to something

I am executing this word by absorbing life, catching up with friends, new and old, and immersing myself in activities that interest, challenge, and fascinate me.  In order to do so, I have to keep this word on my mind daily.

I agree with Ralph Waldo Emerson when he said,  “The one thing in the world, of value, is the active soul.”

However, the active soul does not come without hardships.  When you choose to engage yourself, there is a bit of risk involved.  You risk being rejected and having your feelings hurt.  Anyone that has suffered a great deal of rejection would rather stay closed in with the walls up high, rather than put themselves in a vulnerable position.  But there has to come a time when the choice to be engaged outweighs the risk, otherwise, life would lack excitement, fullness, and joy.

Les Brown once said, “We must look for ways to be an active force in our own lives. We must take charge of our own destinies, design a life of substance and truly begin to live our dreams.”

Would you describe yourself as an active soul or are you a spectator in your own life?  Are you in charge of your life or is it ruled by fear and insecurities?  Maybe it is time to make a pledge, to begin, take part, or give attention to yourself or the wonderful life around you.