Clinton, this is such a wonderful piece! The emotion of what you went through comes through loud and clear. The desire to prioritize yourself so that you can be there for others is one that often gets lost in a false sense of responsibility and not wanting to let others down. You learned it's just the opposite. I like to use the oxygen mask analogy that you have to put on your own mask and take care of yourself before others.
I saw first-hand what happened to my parents in the decline of their health that ended up becoming a life of disease and disability that was largely preventable. So that was always my cautionary tale.
Many people don't get other chances to do right by themselves. I'm very glad you did and dived in to be someone who prioritizes their health and identity as someone who does healthy things like consistently walking. I hope your story hits home with others who are putting everything and everyone first before themselves before it's too late.
The oxygen mask analogy is one I wish someone had handed me years ago. There is a false sense of honor in running yourself into the ground for everyone else. Like somehow that makes you a good provider. It took me two heart attacks to unlearn that.
I am sorry about what you watched your parents go through. That kind of up close view of what neglect can cost stays with you. I am glad it became a cautionary tale instead of a pattern. The work you are doing helping people thrive after 50 matters more than people realize.
Clinton, this is such a wonderful piece! The emotion of what you went through comes through loud and clear. The desire to prioritize yourself so that you can be there for others is one that often gets lost in a false sense of responsibility and not wanting to let others down. You learned it's just the opposite. I like to use the oxygen mask analogy that you have to put on your own mask and take care of yourself before others.
I saw first-hand what happened to my parents in the decline of their health that ended up becoming a life of disease and disability that was largely preventable. So that was always my cautionary tale.
Many people don't get other chances to do right by themselves. I'm very glad you did and dived in to be someone who prioritizes their health and identity as someone who does healthy things like consistently walking. I hope your story hits home with others who are putting everything and everyone first before themselves before it's too late.
Melanie, thank you for this. Really.
The oxygen mask analogy is one I wish someone had handed me years ago. There is a false sense of honor in running yourself into the ground for everyone else. Like somehow that makes you a good provider. It took me two heart attacks to unlearn that.
I am sorry about what you watched your parents go through. That kind of up close view of what neglect can cost stays with you. I am glad it became a cautionary tale instead of a pattern. The work you are doing helping people thrive after 50 matters more than people realize.
You're very welcome Cinton. Well the important thing is you have made terrific changes for the better.
Thanks for your kind comment on my work as well. I hope so!