Me First is NOT Selfish

If you've ever flown on an airplane you've listened or not, as the flight attendent explained that if the oxygen masks are needed that you should put on your own first before helping your child or others around you. As a mom that goes contrary to everything that I think about, and I'm not the only one. Often times I have heard moms I know and respect who are really amazing moms say things like they feel guilty because they went for a ride by themselves, bought something for themselves or got to take a shower every day. Seems like the better the mom is the less it takes for her to say these things and feel real genuine guilt for putting on her proverbial oxygen mask first. I was reminded again today by my own mom that to take care of John, I have to take care of me first, taking care of me first sounds so selfish to my mommy ears especially when John is sick, feeling bad or in the hospital. But my own mom's reminder was spot on and just when I needed it, to be able to care for John, to be able to sit through the ER for hours on end, be awake off and on through the night with little rest, learn what it takes to care for him and all that is involved with taking care of John I have to care of me first and am thankful today for all the people in my life who remind me that it's not selfish, it's part of taking care of my sweet boy! This message is for you too, Mark, and for all the moms I know, it doesn't matter if you kid has special needs or regular old ordinary needs the thing they need most is you and to do that you have to take care of you first.