You are never too old to try new things or even begin new traditions. In 2023, I adopted the increasingly popular spiritual practice of choosing a star word for Epiphany
Each year I have looked across tables covered in stars before carefully choosing one. Then, I turn it over to reveal the star word that will light my path for the year ahead.
Looking Back
Last year my word was believe, which felt like a heavy, important, and relevant word. In 2025 I completed my first significant role in parish ministry in a decade, serving as Interim Senior Pastor of Advent Lutheran Church (ELCA) (for more on 2025 see Star Words: Clarity, Faith, Believe and Epiphany: Chalk, Stars, and Journeying Anew). In 2024 I stepped into that role (while continuing to serve as CEO of White Rock Center of Hope) during my year of faith (see Faith: My Star Word for 2024). And, in 2023 when I received clarity as my star word I found myself living in a year marked by many meaningful milestones that helped me prepare for the next season of life (see Star Word for 2023 and Wrapping Up The Year of Clarity).
Looking Ahead
This year my star word is wisdom.
Wisdom
According to Wikipedia, wisdom “is the ability to apply knowledge, experience, and good judgment to navigate life’s complexities. It is often associated with insight, discernment, and ethics in decision-making. Throughout history, wisdom has been regarded as a key virtue in philosophy, religion, and psychology, representing the ability to understand and respond to reality in a balanced and thoughtful manner. Unlike intelligence, which primarily concerns problem-solving and reasoning, wisdom involves a deeper comprehension of human nature, moral principles, and the long-term consequences of actions.”
In recent years life has grown more and more complex. I’m grateful for the invitation to lean in to wisdom, trusting it will ably guide me through all that is ahead in 2026.