The Oxygen Mask Theory

What is the Oxygen Mask Theory you ask? If you don't put on your mask first, you won't be able to save anyone else. I was reminded of this when I reread a little book that Oprah magazine subscribers received a few years ago. In it Oprah talks about nurturing yourself so that you are able to nurture others.
Many years ago, when I was still going to confession face-to-face, I told the priest that I was a wife, mother, and teacher. He said you spend all of your time taking care of others. Who is taking care of you? I really had to think about that. My family was good to me but they weren't really nurturing me or my spirit.
This brought me to a decision to stop pursuing an advanced degree in educ. admin. and to instead get involved in something that brought (and still brings) me alot of joy. I became a Master Gardener and started creating a little bit of paradise in my backyard. Working in my flowers every day really feeds my soul. It gives me great joy to see what comes up each spring. I relish every butterfly and hummingbird that visits my garden.
I have a poster in my closet that says "A Joyful Journey is a Successful Life." I truly believe that. Where is the joy in your life?