Several years ago my cousin came to visit my grandma while she lived here with us. At the end of the weekend, as she hugged me good-bye she said something that has stuck with me. "You need to take as good care of yourself as you do everyone else."
And she was right. For so long, I've put myself on the back burner, and waited on everyone, made sure each person got where they needed to go, made sure meals were made to satisfy everyone, stayed up late to take care of details that no one may remember in years to come. I think this comes with being a mother, doesn't it?
I have no desire to stop taking care of my family, but I do desire to take on less stress for myself, eat better, and make time for activities that I enjoy. And that I am doing. Call it a resolution, call it a lifestyle change, or any other thing that you desire. I finally understand that it isn't selfish to take time for myself, and it's very freeing.
8 comments:
i've long believed (and known personally) that
**one cannot give from an empty well**. not saying your well is empty, but we need to refill that well till overflowing - it's the overflow that blesses our families and others. so ... fill it up! ((((((*hug*))))))
Good for you! Is your cat really listening to music??! You must have a docile cat or a quick camera to get that shot :)
I also find it useful to think about when I'm asked to do something outside our home/family life. Will I spend all my love/time/energy on people other than my family and come back to them with nothing to give?
Margo, It's Abigail's iPod, and while Chester was napping on her bed she took the opportunity to snap this photo. There's not actually music playing, but he sure looks the part!
This is my moto for this year too. Be a little kinder to myself. I am 50 this year and with seven children between 1-26 years of age I know there is room in there for some me time. However i think my time will be spent doing things I like, such as sewing and quilting ....without being bothered.
I understand what you mean...I just may join you...
isn't it great to finally realize that, tracy! it took me a long time to come to that conclusion to.
best wishes on your resolution. have fun and try new things! :)
Before we can love others we must love ourselves...I don't do this well. But I'm with you...I need to take better care of me, physically and spiritually--thanks for the inspiration!
Sounds sensible and simple but it's something that I struggle with as well :o)
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