One Word for 2013

So, here's the truth... I don't really like this word.  I wanted something cute like "simplify" or "dwell" that I could write in a fancy font on the chalkboard over my mantle.  Deep down, I've known this was going to be "my word" for weeks now (maybe months even); but, I must admit that I've spent the better part of the last few days racking my brain for something softer, happier, prettier sounding. Something not so religious or deep. A more blog-worthy word.  I even researched synonyms for surrender, but "cede," "abandon," and "capitulate" didn't exactly do it for me either. ;)

It was New Year's Eve before it hit me that if I couldn't even surrender control over something as simple as a word, it probably is an area where God wants to stretch me.   (Ugg.) 

I realize this is totally lame sounding; but, in the end, my word chose me this year; and there is simply no avoiding it. 

Surrender.

It is a word, a message, I have heard over and over and over again in my life.  But, recently, it has been spoken even LOUDER and CLEARER through the voices of dear friends, the teaching and writing of respected pastors, authors, etc., and, well, the reality that I can.not.get.it.out.of.my.head.  That's got to mean something, right? 

To be honest, I'm not  entirely sure what this even means to me and my life right now.  I have no stinking idea where to begin to surrender or what the process will look like (and, frankly, it scares me a little lotta bit).  But, I'm up for the challenge...

Here is my prayer for January 1st and all 365 days after it:

Ok God, I know that things are MUCH better when I stop trying so hard and let you be in control.  I know that I will only find true freedom and peace through surrender to you. Please help me to trust you and rest in the truth that you make even imperfections perfect.  I'm all in.

Here's to a year of surrender! 

Source

 What is your word for 2013?  I'd love to hear it in the comments.

(I'm linking with www.oneword365.com.)