Even if we tend to be the (sometimes pathological) helpers and peacekeepers of life, we must learn that practicing self-care is not the same thing as "being selfish," even if we are surrounded by a world and people who'd want to believe that about is because we don't make their opinions and life the centerpiece of our existence.

"No," is a complete sentence. And it's also not rude or selfish to use that sentence when we start to feel like our integrity is starting to be compromised by others.

Having your good nature sucked dry by people with parasitic tendencies (yes, I just said that!) is neither pleasant nor "noble."

Maybe that's why solitude — or just the company of a very few "chosen family" individuals — becomes increasingly attractive as we age. It's not about becoming a recluse. It's about having respect for ourselves.

xo