We never know what personal storms people are carrying with them. I know I'm guilty of making assumptions sometimes, thinking people just have it all together, but in reality they are struggling more than I know. Same goes for myself sometimes. I'm good at putting on a good face, or minimizing what I'm going through because what other people need is more important, and also because I don't want to be "a burden" to others. This is all the result of past trauma, the great creator of anxiety disorders. A good way to cultivate kindness (even/especially for ourselves) is to remember that the weight of our personal storms can be daunting. It's so important that we do whatever is necessary to take good care of ourselves, and also to remember that we really have no idea what other people are going through. Allow yourself whatever you need, and do your best to allow it for others, too.
Love, Cheri ❤️™
