One is not the loneliest number

I am on my own now. Time to take care of me. I tend to give and give of myself, and leave nothing in my tank. A friend once said to me, "No one is going to take care of you but you." So I am determined to focus on the things I need so that I can give to others out of abundance, rather than leftovers. Before, my saying this would make me feel self-conscious that others mighty see this as selfish. Now I am coming to realize that in order to really love someone, you have to love yourself first. This journey I am taking is somewhat frightening, and I feel out of my element. However, I think it will be worth it in the end.

Today I was Christmas shopping and the lines were horrendously long. The lady behind me had several things in her hands, but she didn't have a cart. I offered to let her put her stuff in my basket. We began a conversation (we had nothing but time), and then others began to converse with us. It is amazing what you can learn about people just from talking to them. Conversation is free, and the return on your investment is more than you would imagine. When we got to the counter, I offered to let her go ahead of me, since she was going to have to take her stuff out first anyway. She couldn't believe what I was saying. I had to insist. Are people so used to rudeness that they are taken aback when someone is generous. She thanked me profusely, and said she'd "pay it forward." We smiled. Amazing how just a simple act of kindness can permeate the atmosphere with that Christmas spirit. And I feel great!