Reflections

Life is not just about existing. It’s about the opportunities we choose to take on, the opportunities we pass on, and the opportunities where we accept we HAVE to put ourselves first, regardless.

As the year comes to a close, I want to express my gratitude for:

• those who were there,
• those who were available but haven’t helped,
• and those who put themselves first and weren’t.

As this new year starts, remember, just because you know me or someone else, does not mean you are automatically obligated to spend your spoons on them and their challenges. Just as they are not obligated to do the same for you.

Sometimes, we simply do not have enough energy and strength to get through our own days. And when those days happen, it’s VITAL you reach out. Not once, not twice, not a handful of times. You keep reaching out until there is help available or someone can help you get the tools to do it yourself.

Getting & Giving Help

Recently someone said they needed help and didn’t know what to do. So I asked one key question: mental (988) or physical(911). Once having that answer I gave them the 988 number. But I didn’t stop there because I had the spoons. I also looked for resources where they lived. Searched for local support groups in their town and gave them a second number. Because sometimes, 1 number isn’t enough.

Accepting limitations

When you have chronic health issues, spoons are more valuable than gold (which has hit a all new high in value btw), so always use them wisely.

This being said, as the year comes to close, despite all my actions spent in the last 90 days (new bed, more therapy, getting a new doctor specifically for addressing the chronic pain), I will likely not be able to help my community as much for a while. My stored up spoons are just about spent and I’m having to tap into my “tomorrow” supply late at night.

My wish for everyone’s 2026

I have learned a balance of when I can help, and when I cannot. I hope for those who haven’t, they can learn skill in their year of 2026.