“The more balanced you are as a parent, the easier it will be to provide your child with long-lasting sustenance…Practicing this respect in everyday life, and encouraging others to do the same, is to be of good spirit.”
(Taken from Tomorrow’s Children: A Cherokee Elder’s Guide to Parenting by Tsolagiu M.A. RuizRazo)
As caregivers, oftentimes we see self-care and self-nurturing as taking away from the circle of relationship – taking away time, energy and attention. This quote reminds us that all our self-care is returned to the circle of relationship and benefits the circle as a whole. Knowing this, we can let go of false beliefs that our efforts towards self-care do not also benefit those around us.
“Spirit is the life force permeating everything on this earth and beyond.” To leave anyone out of this circle of care, including ourselves, upsets the balance. We are role models for those in our care – our children, nieces and nephews, elders, friends…all our relations. Just as they are role models for us. Our actions do not go unnoticed. We are teaching one another all the time. Let’s teach healthy, loving, balanced living – with gratitude.
Stop by Kwawachee and leave your comments/ideas on what you do to nurture healthy relationships in your family and community in the drop-off box provided. On Feb. 24, Counselors Sarah Bennett and Willow Pearson will share what you have written at the Community Connection event at Kwawachee Spirit House from 5-7 p.m.
