I chose Center as my word for 2025. I wanted to explore it in a few different ways, which ended up including making a vision board and near-daily meditation.
As it became more apparent that I was about to not only re-enter pastoral ministry but continue to do so alongside my other work, I developed a new idea. As I reflected not only on my learnings from the year but also from my previous 15+ years of pastoring, and started compiling a list of short proverbs for remaining centered as I begin this new phase of my vocational life.
Here is the list that I came up with:
- DON’T PANIC
- Family is the priority
- Forgive yourself
- Learn from mistakes but leave them in the past
- You are enough
- Sleep is required
- Sweat regularly
- Meditate daily
- Always keep writing
- It’s not that serious
- Protect your peace
- Remember gratitude
I anticipate adding more and revising this as time goes on.
I could explain what I mean by each one in much more detail, and maybe I will someday. But I also think they each speak for themselves pretty well already.
Anyway, I’m keeping copies of this list where I can regularly see it. I have one copy hanging on the wall in my basement studio, and another in my new church office (pictured above). I think it will do me a lot of good.
Jeffrey A. Nelson 