On a much needed vacay, I released all responsibilities and obligations. I intentionally unplugged to rest and replenish. I hadn’t recognized the heavy weights I’d carried and the toll it had taken on me.  I hadn’t listened to my inner voice when I needed to say no, but said yes. I continued to accept additional responsibilities and it became my norm for others to heavily rely upon me.  These responsibilities weren’t forced upon me. I accept full accountability for my inability to set boundaries. As a result, I became so overwhelmed with others’ needs that I neglected my own. 

When I arrived, my sister was shocked to see my physical appearance. I looked stressed and worn to the core. She immediately went into Urgent Care for me by insisting I rest and restricting me from any forms of activity that she deemed unnecessary. My sweet sister tendered to my every need generously.  As I regained my sufficiency, I came to some provoking realizations:

Perspective – people view the same situation through the lens of their own experiences (good or bad). I don’t have to agree, but I can respect it (there is always a hidden piece of truth to the story)

Ownership – if it doesn’t belong to me, I don’t have to own it. It’s ok if my support is layered and limited. Recognize what I can and cannot provide. 

Capacity – will this drain me to the point of self neglect? I must know my limitations and boundaries because others don’t. A “no” to them is a “yes” to myself.

Choice – I have a choice and I must choose wisely what I will and won’t accept. I won’t let the dead tell me what the living God said.

Unknown – God is in control; therefore I will rest. The unknown may be the place of great beginnings and where good things happen.

Peace – Relinquishing control maintains my peace. Walk in self-forgiveness because clinging to mistakes and disappointments increases the weight of my load. Let others live with the consequences of the decisions made for their lives  

Hopeful Victory- I am not a victim of the past or current challenges. I will make it; just like I survived 100% of my past challenges 

At the end of the day, God is All Supreme and people are fragile, frail and faulty – me included. Do what you can and give the rest to God!