On February 17, 2019, I hosted an amazing event, Grace & Girl-Talk in the sweetest borough, Brooklyn.
The response from the women in attendance was dynamic and inspiring, as each attendee offered a unique presence and perspective.
The purpose of my event was to discuss the themes within my novel, and to open conversation among women regarding mental health and the call to address stigma surrounding mental health in our cultures.
The recurring subject was self-care, and one of my speakers emphasized the need to view self-care and seeking support as a gift to yourself.
It's common to consider self-care as selfish and self-serving, as many women who shared their self-care practices considered this as an opportunity to be selfish. In facilitating this discussion, I challenged this language and asked attendees to avoid viewing this gift in a negative light, emphasizing the ability to serve others best with a full reservoir.
I imagine self-care to be: Making a commitment to one's self.
In marriage, a commitment is solidified by the exchange of wedding vows. In traditional vows, there is the promise to take the other person as your partner, to love and cherish them for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, till death do you part.
Imagine if we applied those same vows to ourselves, promising to value yourself, to love and cherish yourself with all your flaws and refrain from self deprecation, to remain the course through financial struggles, and to remain humble with financial increase. Lastly, to make a greater effort toward health and wellness; eating clean and reserving time to exercise.
Let's challenge ourselves to make a vow to ourselves today, to align ourselves with the favor God has for us, and the delight he has in creating us wonderfully. Handle yourself with care!
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