Do You Put Yourself First?

I had dinner last weekend with about 10 friends. We all worked together for the same company at one point or another. Some of us only stopped through the company for awhile (I was there about 6 years), while others spent 20+ years with the same company. We get together several times a year and it is always magical with conversations about the "old days," travel, tv and movies, people, our friends, and yes, even politics and religion! LOL

This "family" has prayed so hard for Bryan and for me; and I truly believe that their love and support was key in getting through it all.

I was commenting on the fact that the most important thing in my life is that Bryan is doing well; and I was stopped instantly! I was forcefully reminded that the most important thing is that I am doing well! Because as they all said, "You can't be there for Bryan unless you are in a good place, taking care of yourself and actually putting yourself first." And they are right.

I think it is one of the most difficult concepts for parents of addicts. We spend so much time and energy worrying about and taking care of them, and we often put ourselves at the bottom of the priority list. So my holiday prayer for everyone I know who continues with the struggles of addiction in their lives (as family and friends, or as the addict), is that you must put yourself first! By caring for yourself and demonstrating a healthy approach to life and to the ensuing drama, you are actually being a positive role model for your addict, your spouse, your other children, and most importantly, yourself!

It's why I love this group. They focus on life, the Love of God, family, those in need, friends, themselves and each other! The CEO of our company (who was also at dinner last night) did quite a remarkable job in bringing this eclectic and interesting group of women together over the years. I'm blessed to have them in my life.