I don't know about you, but I messed up a lot in 2012.

Last night I couldn't fall asleep and I was lying there thinking about all the ways I screwed up, missed opportunities or settled for second-best. I was nearly overcome with regret. That regret threatened to drown all the success I've had this year.

I finally drifted off to sleep and when I woke up today, I remembered something my editor told me: God not only gives us second chances, He also gives us Second Firsts.

"Second Firsts" is the anti-thesis of "Second Best." Our human economy tells us we're all competing for a limited supply of 'firsts.' But God isn't bound by human economics, is He? A truly good, limitless God is capable of giving His children second chances and second firsts--no matter how badly we've screwed it up.

I love the idea of Second Firsts. It gives me that little thrill of possibility. It's a pure shot of hope. It gives me a more expansive view of God.

Second Firsts is my word for 2013. Or, rather, it's my driving idea, my Prime Mover, my catalyst, my springboard.

Last year, I took the phrase Relentless Optimism to heart. I can honestly report that living my life with relentless optimism resulted in a huge mental shift, which led to a tangibly positive result in my life. For example, I stuck with an exercise regimen for the WHOLE YEAR. I ran two 5ks, lost 12 lbs and felt better than I did at 21.

Relentless optimism!

This year, I'm drawing close to the idea of Second Firsts. I believe that God is capable of redeeming things in my life far beyond my expectations. I don't want to live my life narrowly. I want to live with open arms and open heart.

I believe that with God there are no leftovers. A good Father knows how to give good gifts. I want to live from that place. I believe all is redeemed. I believe God makes all things beautiful.

I can't wait to see the Second-Firsts that will happen in my life this year!

Do you have a word or phrase for 2013? Share with me! And be sure to check out the One Word 365 community.