Updated: Sep 16, 2021
Hazy from a recent night's bout with insomnia I slowly sauntered into the kitchen to make myself a cup of coffee to perk up this cold overcast morning.
While making the coffee, I almost instinctively said aloud to myself, "I wish someone would make me coffee." I knew that I actually meant, "I wish someone else would make me coffee" but I thought instead about the words that came out of my mouth.
I chuckled aloud at the absurdity of the moment. I was in the middle of me doing something caring for myself and couldn't see the love and care that showed.
How many times have I wished for acts of service, proclamations of love, sex from others completely ignoring how I can give myself those very same things? Countless, but that perception has made a major shift resulting in recognition of this love all around me.
Me showing up to work when I don't feel like it? That's self love.
Pushing back on a friend who says something that I don't agree with? Self love.
Masturbation and fantasy? Definitely self love, not only physically but mentally.
Making coffee because I feel tired and want a little boost. That's self love y'all.
So next time you ask yourself why others aren't doing for you, pause. Then, take a few more pauses because you didn't actually pause the first time (I'm talking to you, Henry). What things have you done for yourself because you're aware they'll brighten your day, bring much needed energy, or recharge your batteries? In the answer you'll find that you're already a self love champion and may have not even realized it. The more you realize that, the more love you will give not only to yourself but to others.
Updated: Sep 16, 2021
Updated: Jan 16, 2021
On mornings like these, when I am feeling especially joyous and connected to life, my brain lights up. I've been learning to lean into these moments in a variety of ways with one of them being watching TED (Technology Education & Design) talks.
Each talk can be anywhere from a few minutes up to about an half hour on average centered around the titular three areas. The format is a presenter using visual and audio aides of their choosing to get their points across. I've seen some pretty astonishing things over the years from full audience participatory moments to soul baring stories where strangers all cried together.
For me, there's something about a TED talk to lights up my mind and spirit. I can feel the electricity of discovery, curiosity, and excitement. TED talks have pulled me up from not wanting to move from the couch. They have also been there for me in moments like now where I feel plugged in.
Wherever you currently are, I hope that one of these can help your mind and spirit go on a quick journey unlocking a bit more wonder.