With a nervous system that's wired for threat,
I'll always find a reason to fret.
More than I know, it shapes me.
I grew up learning to please and serve,
and now, despite decades of healing, the nerve
to please myself escapes me.
I know that my children and others I love
are depending on me to put my needs above
all else, for that's the way
to love them (and the world) from a cup that's full--
and yet, I'm depleted, as if bound to the pull
of their demands each day.
I think no amount of coaching my mind
to put my needs first will undo this bind:
my body is the one
who needs my help learning that it's okay
to take care of my needs--safety will stay
and grow like dawning sun.
