Round up is with Irene at Live Your Poem.
On this first Thursday of December, the Spiritual Journey bloggers are reflecting on our 2018 one little word. Way back in January, I chose the word Explore. Like previous words, Presence and Open, this word helped me to be more present to the world around me. Exploration is important in the life of a writer. To me exploring has a connotation of adventure and daring. While I find much comfort in just being at home, when I am more open to adventure, I reach out and invite joy in.
My students and I enjoy exploring different ways to look at common objects. The above image was taken through a Private Eye jewelers loupe in the school garden. The Private Eye asks the viewer to use figurative language to describe what you see. It looks like… and it also looks like…
A rose in bloom
flowing tutu in the sun
a garden dancer
Following NCTE in Houston, my friend Dani traveled home with me for a few days before heading back to Montana. We explored Avery Island and the Tabasco plant, a sculpture garden in New Orleans, and an old cemetery. Dani was fascinated by the above ground crypts. Since NOLA is below sea level, bodies are buried above ground to avoid floating away. Exploring is more fun with a friend.
Explore was a good word for 2018, but as this year comes to a close, I’m thinking about next year’s one little word. I feel the need to turn more toward reaching out to others and making some kind of difference. Explore was a more self-serving word, one that led me to adventures and new places, but didn’t send me outward to others. I’m ready to look inward to how I can become more generous to others.
#haikuforhope
Hope fills my waiting heart
Gently cradled in wonder
Exploring my world
(c) Margaret Simon
Reflections on the Teche 
Your explorations this year sound wonderful! Thanks for sharing them! Ruth, thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com
Your word “explore” may not have that outward reaching vibe to it, but I know your life includes others, regardless–like your explore with Dani. I’m looking forward to find out what your 2019 OLW will be!
I have loved your explorations this year, Margaret! Thinking of you as you ponder your next OLW… I know the right word will find you. xo
Your waiting heart must be overjoyed with wonder and exploration of a new chapter in your life. Explore served you well. The #haikuforhope is a fine example of how your one word guided you to write. Enjoy Baby Leo. There will be many more poems in his future from his Grandma.
I love your photos, your explorations with Dani, and your opportunity to explore your new role as grandmother. I’ve loved seeing the photos you’ve posted of you and Leo and these words from your haiku for hope:
“Hope fills my waiting heart
Gently cradled in wonder…”