Balancing For Self and For Other

A core tension throughout our lives is the pull between focusing on our selves and our own needs, and focusing on how we relate to others, what we can give, how we are in community. The latter takes many forms and can be about being in a romantic relationship, being part of a family, participating in a religious community, or giving back to society at large.

We seesaw between focusing on ourselves and others. Set boundaries without becoming narcissistic. Be generous without burning out. Know what you want. Respect others’ needs and expectations. Follow your own path. Give back.

Be an individual and also be part of society.

Every New Year so many of us commit to resolutions about how to improve ourselves.

What if we also committed to resolution about how to be in community? What if those expectations were valued as highly?