Explore 2024: January

I like the practice of focusing on a word each year. It provides some ideas for thinking, being, and just plain living. This year I choose the word "explore" and begin where I always begin, with definitions and word origin. I didn't find much insight in the etymology dictionary so I set that information aside. Perhaps another day I will read it differently. However, many variations of meaning exist. Of course, I focus on the definitions that speak to me.   

Explore: 

1. To investigate systematically, examine. To investigate, study, analyze. To think about, talk about, study or experience something, in order to find out more about it. 

2. To search into or travel in for the purpose of discovery. To travel over new territory for adventure or discovery

3. To become familiar with by testing or experimenting. 

Exploration of something new doesn't mean mastery but it does provide a sense of what might be possible. It feels expansive, including an approach to aging that isn't about a contracting circle of being. Sometimes explore will be a stretch for me and that is a good thing. 

This month my explorations have taken me into difficult territory. The last two months I've experienced an unpleasant side effect from the medication I take for osteoporosis. Right now I'm gathering information and exploring options to make an informed decision. 

Explore will be a good word for 2024. For now, I'm setting aside any detailed preplanned map and thinking in terms of general direction, as from a compass. Whether I post monthly about my explorations remains to be seen. 

I wish you all well from a day with bright blue sky and warming temperatures. The snow is melting and the year is still new. I am eager to explore the possibilities.