It took my fifties to get me to a place of self awareness. Before then, my life was spent pleasing others more than pleasing myself. I felt guilty if I could not give others ninety-nine percent of my time giving myself the left over one-percent.
My first is having the confidence to live my dreams, to be myself and to not be afraid of aging. Now, I feel worthy of good treatment from relationships, and when the relationship is not healthy, I can walk away and feel good about it. I saw the attractiveness of my own self image, as I give myself permission to be all that, I should be….first.
I once worked on a political campaign, which was getting on my last nerve. I didn’t want to let the candidate down or disappoint the committee members involved. But, to stay actively involved, I was taking herbal nerve pills. Only to find out at the end that I really wasn’t appreciated for all the planning and effect that I put into the campaign.
Standing up for self and putting self first, is the best medicine for the soul. I am so thankful for life and everyday is a day of living my dreams. Now, when I am helping others, I know the balance. I know how to give without losing myself. Now it is so clear that aging gives strength to make a better decision about life. There are many firsts. The confidence in me started the list.
by Josie Slaton Terry
Source: More Magazine
