Decided to take half a day yesterday afternoon. Not sick. Just worn out. Mentally. Physically. Emotionally. Spiritually. Felt better as soon as I made the decision. And then I felt worse. Well, I felt guilt.

Not a new feeling. And I know, after 25 years of working with other teachers, that it is not an exclusive feeling, either. It’s hard for us to be gone. We feel obligated to be there, to serve–even at the cost of our own well-being. Admittedly, over the years I have learned to better deal with the “guilt of gone,” but as admittedly, it still presents itself when I am. Still, I have learned that when my body, my spirit speaks, I need to listen. Yesterday, it spoke. Yesterday, I listened. And today, I am feeling more wise than guilty.

And, it is this I must remember. There is wisdom in self-care. And though I imagine guilt will attempt to attach himself now and again, I will peel him from my chest. He will not mark me, and I will instead walk with wisdom. He is a better companion by far. Maybe, she. Seems Wisdom is more likely a woman.

Happy Friday, all. Listen to your body and spirit.

Do. Reflect. Do Better.