Tug -O- War: Me or Thee?!
Today while talking to my buddy C, I knew what my new blog would be about. She was telling me about this great new camp she attended with a child she mentors. It was a Christian camp and it was amazing. There were many things she loved about the camp, but her favorite thing was their motto:
I am number THREE!
What that means is they put God first, then others, then themselves. So they are always number three. Hmmm, I know God is for sure my number 1, and as a mom/wife/friend many times others are my number 2, but at the end of the day, if I am number 3 - I'm tired, cranky, and overall drained. It's truly a daily battle - should I put others first or myself?
Now, I am NOT saying be selfish per se... except, I guess I sort of am. I mean, if we are always putting others first, then how do we take care of ourselves? It was funny, because during the same conversation this morning, C & I were talking about the two of us trying to go on a retreat together. I mentioned one that I've always wanted to do and she asked me how much $$ it was. I asked her why did it matter when she just said she would spend $795 to send her daughter to the aforementioned camp for a week.
She would spend nearly $800 for her daughter but then waiver on a couple of hundred for herself? She laughed then said, "yes, but that was for my daughter." Seriously???!!! huh??? Sadly, she is not alone in this kind of thinking. How many times as moms do we go over and above for our kids and yet tackle daily guilt about doing anything for ourselves?
While shopping at this wonderful new event called the Gypsy Market (www.gypsymarket.net) this week, I found a piece of jewelry that said "I'm Second". I think that fits better for me. I know I have to put the oxygen mask on myself first then help my loved ones (as the flight attendant always reminds us).
Remember that old but true statement? "When MaMa ain't happy...." Yes, I want to fully give myself, my love, my attention to those who matter to me, but I think I need to do it once I've taken care of myself. So, I choose me...which in turn will help me choose thee! :) (is that bad??? lol)
What is something small you do for yourself regularly that helps you feel full and able to give to others? Share in the comment section... Would love to hear from you.