I read a book over the holidays and smiled when a favorite song was quoted: Give Yourself to Love by Kate Wolf. What a perfect intention for this new year and new decade!
Kids do this naturally — love, laugh, cry, look for the good in each other and give themselves fully to each moment. Living each day as a gift of love is a bit more challenging for some than for others. Past hurts, fear of the future, insecurity, and not feeling safe are major obstacles. The two best things we can do for our kiddos is to help them feel safe and loved. If only we could do the same for ourselves.
In this new year, I wonder what would happen if I treated myself the way I would a child in my care. Healthy eating and sleeping habits (no more popcorn for dinner!), plenty of fresh air and sunshine (i.e. less time at my desk), turning chores into fun adventures (maybe blast the soundtrack from Chorus Line like my mom used to do to get us moving on Saturday mornings), gathering with family/friends/community on a regular basis, getting and giving help/support to others. What is on your list?
So give yourself to love
if love is what you’re after
Open up your heart
to the tears and laughter
And give yourself to love
give yourself to love