My One Little Word for 2016 was contentment. As I sit on my sofa, snuggled next to my dog, Lucy, sipping tea and listening to the radio, I exemplify my wishes for 2016. In January I wrote:
I am an introvert by nature and I think a lot of 2015 put me out of my comfort zone. I had to be more extroverted than I am by nature. I want to reclaim my introversion and just be happy with what I have, where I live and work. I am sure I will find something that will catch my fancy and will let it sweep me up, but for now, I am content with life and I just want to embrace that for a while.
2016 has let me be. There were no major catastrophes. No family or pet deaths, like there were in 2015. No job changes. I have had time to become a better 6th grade teacher and no longer feel like the newbie at school. This unruffled year of contentment has allowed me to grow.
It is lovely to have vacation at the end of the year, but know that this little cocoon I have wrapped myself in since school let out will end soon. And I am ready for that. I am ready for what 2017 will bring and for my new OLW. I’ve been thinking about it, maybe too much. but I have an idea of the butterfly that will emerge from the cocoon of contentment.
booksandbassets 
This is a great word. So often we become discontent with what we have and where we are in life. Glad this word worked for you. Happy 2017.
Loved reading your final reflection related to contentment. I can’t wait to read about your OLW for 2017! I, too have been thinking about words LOTS. Next Tuesday, I plan to make my final decision for my next OLW. And also I have been thinking of how this year’s word will lead me to my next word,. I like your image of your content cocoon leading to a word related to a butterfly!
Sometimes we all need to take time in our “cocoon of contentment.” I look forward to the emergence of your new one little word.
After reading this I definitely need to write one !!
Also what is OLW? I’ve seen that multiple places now !
You can find out about it here: http://aliedwards.com/projects/one-little-word
Thanks !
“2016 has let me be.” Sometimes it’s all we need. The best part of OLW is that it doesn’t have to be the biggest, brightest, or mightiest – it just has to be what we need in this time and place. Curious to see what your new word will be.