Since January of 2020 a specific type of word has been highlighted to me, appearing everywhere! Years ago I knew this word would be a word of the year at some point, but also that particular year would be a very different and strange time. The time is now.

A word full of paradox and possibility…

About a decade ago I made a list of ‘re’ words and became fascinated with the effects the prefix had on the meaning of words.

• As a prefix ‘re-’ means: again & again, again in a different way, anew, once more; back to the original state, backward; renew

• As a noun ‘re’ is: the name of the 2nd tone of the diatonic scale in solfeggio: ‘D’

• As a preposition ‘re’ means: in reference to, regarding, concerning, in the matter of

• As a contraction ‘re’ is used to shorten words such as ‘they are’ to ‘they’re’

• RE is: the chemistry symbol of a Rhenium, a rare metal on Earth, stable, non-radioactive, naturally occurring element. It has the second highest melting point; used with other metals for oven filaments, x-ray machines, and jet turbine blades.

• RE is: an abbreviation for: Real Estate, Right Excellent

With all these meanings and uses of the two little letters ‘re’ there is plenty to explore for a whole year - maybe longer.

How ‘RE’ is full of paradox & possibility

The prefix RE begs the question of ‘How are we going to do this again?’ Currently, How are we going to enter and live out this new year. RE means again and again, like a repeat of what’s been done before. RE is also tied to doing something in an entirely new way, or to get back to an intended state of being, and to begin anew. With all the unknown and unrest in the world, this little word is perfect for this new year. RE is inviting me to have a word (or words) of the month, and I feel excited to make special pages in my journal each month designated to my word.

After reading about RE being the chemical symbol of Rhenium, having the the second highest melting point, and when combined with other metals is used for heating filaments, x-ray machines, and jet turbine blades, this resonates with me symbolically.

If there is ever a time when we need to learn to work together,
‘take the heat’ - see what is true underneath the surface,
and take action to fly into our destiny,
it is now!

How our words relate to one another

The fun part about having this word, mostly a prefix, is that it can relate to you and your word of the year.

For example, if your word of the year is ‘intentional’ and the ‘re’ word of the month is renew, questions can help know where newness is needed: Where would you like to experience newness, growth or improvement? What are you passionate about? What new step could you take today to grow or bring order to daily life?

If your word is ‘fruitfulness’ the word renew could become a question like: What do I need to do in order to live a more fruitful life? Is there one thing I could do today that would be a step to growth or productivity?

This little word gives us the opportunity to experience a new word each month that can help bring your word of the year to everyday life. I think it would be great if we could travel with our words together in 2021.

Coming soon in December!

Plan with me - journal set up & month by month planning in your journal through 2021

Why I love living and journaling a word theme for the year

Having a word theme and keeping a journal that incorporates a word of the year has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done for creative and personal growth. It is making art, recording events in a calendar, and chronicling a spiritual journey. Sharing our words and experiences with one another helps me keep going with my word and encourages meaningful connections with like-hearted creatives.

Another reason I love this is it’s just plain fun to bring a word to life, into the visual realm, through the creative process.

What about You?

Do you have a word as a theme for the year? 
Do you want one? 
Will you join me in this Word of the Year journey? 

Think about it…

Stencils used in my 2021 journal so far:

Planner Banner Ribbons #L832
Mid-Century Modern Stars #s754
Script Sans Serif Planner Alphabet + Grid #L833
Circle Bubbles #s794
Scalloped Border Small Mask s644

https://www.stencilgirlproducts.com/stencils-valerie-sjodin-s/2044.htm

Featured Word of the Year Blog Posts

Scroll through these blog posts and read more for inspiration!

For more Word of the Year Inspiration check out: https://www.valeriesjodin.com/word-year-calendar-everyday-journals