This is one of those stories about hindsight; hindsight is 20/20 and all of that good stuff. Many of you know Denis moved to Arkansas to start his new job May, 2017 and I moved the end of August. I commute to Dallas every other week to provide massage for my lovely folks. Several of my sweet clients cautioned me. But, hey, I’m superwoman. I’ve always been able to accomplish the things I set out to do.
As a mother, wife, nana, sister, friend, neighbor, massage therapist, student, teacher and all of the other roles I’ve played throughout my life, I’ve never vividly recognized the need to “take care of me” like I did recently. Sure, I’ve been aware of the need to take care of myself and truly “practice what I preach.” I seek regular massage and chiropractic care. I try to eat reasonably. I regularly attend church to fill my spiritual-self. I started a regular walking and exercise program with the lovely ladies in my new neighborhood.
When I wasn’t commuting or working in Dallas, I researched my new area and spoke to everyone I could about massage and the possibility of starting my practice here. I began meeting new people and getting involved in our new community. Sounds perfect! And I thought it was…
During the month of February I was home very little. Due to work commitments, a lovely vacation and a teaching responsibility I was away from home more than I was here. It took its toll on me. If you’re a home-body like me, you get it.
I didn’t recognize it until it was upon me. I had to stop. I reached the point in which I could not give any more. Period. I had to get home fast.
Once home I had to re-group and rein myself in. I had to release some of the commitments and just be here. I am still in the midst of that “pulling in process.” As difficult as this experience was for me, I think it allowed me to put things into perspective and realize that I can’t do it all. It has been a hard lesson, but a good one.
The hard part is the realization that I’m not superwoman and I must recognize my own needs. This is very hard for me because my inner person gives, gives, gives – it’s truly who I am and who I’ve been my entire life.
The good part of this lesson is that it helped me realize that I must let go of my practice in Dallas. My clients in Dallas are the sweetest and most sincere people I know. I have laughed with them and cried with them. I believe the Lord works in my life in ways in which I don’t always understand. I believe this experience was His way of helping me let go of one thing so that I can explore another.
What’s the TAKE-AWAY from all of this?
It’s OK if you can’t do it all – even when you want to so very badly. Listen to your body. Listen to your heart. Listen to those providing sound advice.
I now know deep in my heart, that Arkansas is where I’ve been planted. I look forward to seeing how my roots spread, my stalk grows and what kind of lovely blooms await for me here. A sunflower comes to mind because of it’s large, sturdy stalk and vibrant bloom.
I will always have a special place in my heart for the sweet clients I leave in Dallas. Many of them have been clients from the very beginning – some for more than 11 years! I will miss each of you BIG!
If you’re ever in Arkansas, please give me a shout! My new local business number – 501-915-4012. My 214 number will continue indefinitely and, you can always find me through my website: www.progressivemassagetherapy.com
I love you my friends,
Susan