have a little faith

recently, i read a blog that suggested that, in lieu of making new year's resolutions, one might focus on a single word as a guide throughout the coming year. i've been rolling this idea around in my mind for days now, wondering what my word might be, and i keep coming back to this one: faith.

in 2011, i watched two friends, one actual and one virtual, step out into uncertain territory, personal uncharted waters. not only did they both survive their ordeals, they are both unscathed and happy. they both relied heavily on their faith in God that things would work out as they should. and they did. it was powerful to watch.

for the first time in memory, there is so much uncertainty surrounding me as this new year begins - a question of executive leadership, a lagging economy, citizen protest, loved ones in afghanistan, changes in local funding, looming life decisions. it's a lot to think about, and a lot feels out of my control. although my religion is vitally important to me, faith in God is only a small part of what i'm hoping for this year. i hope for faith in rational people who will make good decisions in the best interest of the many, not the few. i want faith in our leaders to keep our country strong and proud and safe. i want faith that those i love can make it through any tough times and come out stronger on the other side. i want the security of knowing wherever life leads me or whatever choices i make, i'll be okay in the end.

on my 16th birthday, my mother gave me a gold charm bracelet with a single charm: a mustard seed, encased in an acrylic dome. on the back, tiny writing; a verse from Matthew - if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed...nothing shall be impossible unto you. as a new year begins, i find comfort in this, a message of faith and hope from so long ago. to keep faith at the forefront of this year, i'm wearing the charm as a necklace, always.