SELF CARE IS NOT ALWAYS SELFISHNESS
/SELF CARE IS NOT ALWAYS SELFISHNESS
By: Deon Joseph
If you are a first responder, do not forget self care. Most officers I know are selfless. I know I’ve dedicated 27 years of my life to thinking about others; how to keep people safe from criminals. How to reduce the chances of taking the life of a dangerous soul who wants to hurt me. Trying to make sure my reports were honest and accurate so victims could have closure. Mentoring people, protecting abused women and traumatized children, housing people, sheltering people and being a voice for those with a figurative and sometimes literal gun to their head keeping them front telling the much-needed truth that could save their communities. It took its toll on me physically and emotionally. Stress, injuries, frustration, disappointment and heartbreak. If you are a first responder, listen closely as I’m learning the following lesson late in my career (not an original quote):
“To be there for others is the noblest thing in life. Just don’t leave yourself behind.”
Don’t forget to take care of your physical and mental well-being. Remember to love on those who really love you. To tell them you love them, and let your guard down for them to love the best of you. Not what’s left of you. Go coach a little league team. Go volunteer somewhere. Create a space in your life for peace and goodness; a sanctuary that the world can’t corrupt. Eat better, stay in shape.
You cannot help broken people as effectively if you become broken. So empty your cup every now and then so you can make room for more good works.
This is not a message of selfishness. In fact, it’s the opposite. If you are one who shoulders the world with love driving you, you can’t do it with a broken back or spirit.
I’m going to take up this challenge with you. For the next 30 days, do the following:
- Get some sleep (at least 7 hours)
- Sit in a peaceful place for an hour 3 times or more a week
- 30 minutes of any exercise every day. (Walking, running, biking, swimming)
- Cut down on your food consumption (as many of us stress eat and don’t know it.)
- Pray and give your worries to God.
- Find one thing you and your family can do together at least once a week.
- Smile and laugh more
I’m going to try it with you. Because when we are whole, we are a whole lot of wonderful to others who need us.
Deon Joseph is a 27 year veteran of law enforcement in Southern California - 23 of those years working in the homeless community to create an environment conducive to change for those in recovery, as a Lead Officer. He’s been recognized for his work locally and nationally, and news stories and documentaries surrounding his work in crime fighting and community relations, featured him. www.deonjoseph.org
