Selfishness or Self-Responsibility

When traveling by plane, I typically tune out the flight attendant with her safety talk.

This time, it was different. I was seated in the exit row, and the flight attendant asked me if I was willing to perform the necessary functions that go along with sitting in that row. “I need to hear you say ‘yes’ if you are willing,” she said. I replied with a confident yes.

Though I’ve heard these safety instructions many times, I was a bit more tuned-in this time given the recent plane crashes that had been in the news.

Think back to your last flight. What instructions do they give you regarding the use of emergency oxygen masks? Adults are instructed to place the air mask first on themselves and then on their children. If it is not done in this order, adult risks running out of air, unable to help themselves or the child.

Is it selfish for the adult to place the mask on themselves first?

No. It’s just being responsible.

Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” (Mark 12:31, New International Version). Even the Apostle Paul repeated this command in Galatians 5:14.

The context is treating people with dignity and enjoying healthy relationships. And it is based upon treating yourself well – don’t neglect the “love yourself” part.

Are you treating yourself with dignity? How are you giving yourself quiet time, exercise and the activities that replenish your soul?

If you’re inner life stays on the path it’s on, what will be the result 10 years from now?