2021 Focus Word: OPPORTUNITY

Each January brings a sense of anticipation and hope. This year even more so, as we celebrate the close of a particularly strange year. I know that many of us are happy to see the end of 2020, with all of the shutdowns, social distancing and disruption to our routines. And yet, like in years past, this January and entry into the new year brings the same feelings of anticipation and hope for new beginnings. 2021 is the beginning of a new year and a new decade, new opportunities to challenge ourselves, and engage with our friends and our community with a hopeful return to normal following the COVID19 pandemic.

Each year I choose one word as my focus for the year. In the past I have chosen focus words of joy, light, and perseverance. The words typically come to me in December as I anticipate the coming year and the goals I want to accomplish. This year I have struggled with a focus word for 2021 – partially because I was focused so much on just getting through the challenges of 2020. Yet, when I think about the new year and the new decade, I am excited for the opportunities that it brings and the quiet anticipation that everything is going to be fine. So, I have chosen OPPORTUNITY as the word for 2021.

In 2020, we were forced to change our status quo and be creative to keep our guild going. This brought new opportunities to connect through Zoom on community sew days and quilting bees. It provided opportunities to bring speakers from all across the country into the comfort of our own home. In 2021, I challenge you to embrace change and see it not as a difficult thing, but as an OPPORTUNITY to grow and thrive.

We have many opportunities in 2021 for you to engage with your fellow quilters and expand your own skills. In February we are kicking off a Free Motion Quilt Club. We are also planning several challenges – including the panel challenge starting this month. We are also looking for new ideas and opportunities to connect on a deeper level and realize ACQ’s mission to teach, share and grow the art of quilting.

I hope you take 2021 as a new beginning and an OPPORTUNITY, not only as part of our guild but as part of your own personal journey.