My Word for 2009

At the beginning of 2008, I decided to join in with those who were choosing a word for the year. I chose the word "focus" for 2008 and things went really well until about the last six weeks of the year when I seemed to lose focus on everything!  I'm not sure if it was having sick kids or what - but I felt like the bottom was dropping out on a daily basis and I lost focus of everything.  Hopefully the end of 2009 won't prove to be anything like 2008 has been.

So, for 2009 I have chosen the word gentle and specifically, I'm wanting my gentleness to be reflected in my speech.  I'm sure if you've read my recent posts about wanting to be more kind, gentle, tender and merciful toward my children then this doesn't surprise you.   I've highlighted the Merriam-Webster definition of "gentle" that I'll be using...
gen·tle 
Pronunciation:\ˈjen-t^əl\
Function:  adjective
2 a: tractable , docile b: free from harshness, sternness, or violence

And the passage of Scripture that I plan on posting all through my house is Proverbs 15:1 (NASB)

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger."

I also want to make certain that my speech gives grace to those who hear it (Ephesians 4:29) so, I'm sure I'll be seeing that around the house as well.

I wish you all a happy, healthy 2009.  And if you choose a word for the year, please share it with me!