Intention is powerful
it requires action
mindful attention
a commitment
more than a hope
or an idle dream.
My intent is a pledge
a solemn vow to act.

I intend this year
to engage in self-care.
I have missed the mark
in so many prior years
too many to count
when I hoped and wished
dreamed of what it would
mean to be present in my body.

This year I intend
to take concrete steps
to turn off the computer
to not burn the midnight oil
to not “eat my emotions”
(as my daughter says)
to know that I am of God
and embrace myself.

I’ve decided to participate for the first time in #blogElul, which I have followed for a few years. I’ve never had the courage to get my feet wet – this year, I’m jumping into the deep end of the pool! Check out some of the amazing  themed posts geared around the work and joy of Elul – of introspection and reflection in the days leading to the High Holy Days (Organized by Ima Bima.) You can read last year’s and this year’s #blogElul posts via the Elul tag.