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- TMC No. 03 - This week calls for a share
TMC No. 03 - This week calls for a share
You are not alone.
VaNessa Duplessie
October 06, 2023
Editors Note: A different edition today. A share.
This week my birthday was on Wednesday. I turned 52. Young to some, old to others. At this point, I’ve probably lived at least 50% of my life. Chances are good I don’t live to 104. And that’s ok. I’m making the most of every minute.
I also realized that for the better part of my life, since I was a young girl, I have been a caregiver. I started to officially care for my mom when I was in my 20’s. Making sure rent was paid and she had food on the table. This went on until she passed in 2022. That’s almost 30 years. I’ll share more of her story soon. Along with building our own family, my dad moved in with us 12 years ago, in November of 2011 and I’ve watched his progression from the age of 68 - 80.
From this, I know a few things:
1. I’m grateful to have been able to be there for my parents.
2. Some days are mentally and physically exhausting - mostly mentally.
3. I want to set up our future in a better way - especially for my our care.
4. My husband is a saint who has supported my parental Shenanigans for over 20 of these years. See #2. Mental fortitude is critical. Which leads to self care.
I’ve learned so much through my experiences and as I begin to grow TMC, I’d love to know more about your stories. If you have a story, I’d love to learn more about your experience. Simply hit reply and let’s connect.
Have a great weekend!
VaNessa
Today I’m feeling more of a share than links to connections. I wrote this piece in honor of my birthday. I hope it inspires you, even just a little. As one of my mentors likes to say: “You are not alone and together we go this.”
If you’ve been procrastinating may this give you a little nudge to do your thing and let it shine! My inbox is always open if you need an ear.
A letter to myself today at 52:
I am not the same person I was 10, 20 or even 30 years ago.
So much growth comes with time.
Time for friendship,
Time for family,
Time for grief and loss,
Time for highs and lows,
TIme for fun,
Time for laughs,
Time for quiet,
Time for tears,
Time for achievement,
Time for disappointment.
Time. Time. Time.
A precious gift.
We know not when our time will end.
We celebrate when it began.
In between, the best we can do to honor ourselves is live our best life...by enjoying our time, living with joy and finding ways to honor our own hearts.
I've always said that on my final resting place it will read:
"She was kind and loved by many."
That to me will be life well lived. Welcome 52!
“When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life.”