… of my favorite things
“…understand that to nurture and love others with the grace you desire means taking care of yourself and cultivating your own inner harmony. Inner harmony grows not by finding ways to get away from your child, but by giving yourself the gift of a hot bath at the end of a long day, reading a book of poetry, talking to a friend on the phone, taking a nap, crying, getting a massage, having a day off from cleaning and cooking, staying in your pajamas all day, swimming, going out to eat, or attending a conference. Do something for yourself as you give. Learn to laugh at yourself and not take yourself so seriously.”
~ Peggy O’Mara, The Way Back Home
In under two weeks, half a dozen people have expressed this same sentiment to me. Methinks I am a slow learner. But I’m getting it, slowly. When I’m used to giving of myself to three little ones and one bigger one, there isn’t much time left for me. I’m finding I can give so much more of a happier and more willing self after I’ve taken care of my id. Yes, it sounds selfish, doesn’t it? I struggle with that, but in the end, I have much more to give. And THAT isn’t selfish.
What gives you life?
