My Story - A Journey To Self Reliance
My Awakening
As a mother of five and a dedicated teacher, life was a whirlwind of responsibilities and challenges. Juggling the demands of parenting with the joys and trials of teaching kept me busy and fulfilled. Yet, in the midst of these roles, I took my health for granted, believing I could handle anything that came my way—until I could not.
It was a typical day when I first noticed something was off. A nagging fatigue settled into my bones, sapping my energy and spirit. I brushed it aside, attributing it to the chaos of daily life. But as weeks turned into months, my condition worsened. I found myself struggling to keep up, not only at work but also at home.
Finally, I reached a breaking point. I went to see the doctor, hoping for a quick fix. After a series of tests and examinations, the diagnosis was far from what I had expected. The doctor looked me in the eye and, with a tone that was both compassionate and firm, said, “It’s your willingness to live that will bring new life to you. Medicine can only do so much.”
Those words hit me like a freight train. I realized that my approach to life had been passive. I had been relying on external factors—my job, my responsibilities, and even medication—to provide me with the energy and vitality I craved. But at that moment, I understood that true healing required an active participation in my own life.
This was the turning point I never saw coming. I began to reflect on my mind, heart, and body. I understood that self-reliance was not merely about managing tasks; it was about cultivating a mindset that fostered resilience and strength.
MIND
I started with my mental health. I began journaling my thoughts and emotions daily, allowing myself the space to confront my fears and insecurities. I also delved into books on personal growth, absorbing wisdom from those who had faced their battles with tenacity. The more I learned about the power of mindset, the more I realized how much control I had over my thoughts.
HEART
As a mother, my heart always overflowed with love for my children. However, I had neglected my own needs. I began practicing self-compassion, reminding myself that it was okay to prioritize my well-being. I dedicated time to activities that brought me joy, such as painting and music, nurturing my heart and spirit. I also shared my journey with my children, teaching them the importance of emotional resilience and encouraging them to express their feelings openly.
BODY
I knew that to truly embrace my willingness to live, I had to care for my physical health. I started small, integrating gentle exercise into my routine. Walking became a refuge where I could clear my mind and breathe deeply. I also made conscious decisions about nutrition, focusing on whole foods that energized me rather than depleted my energy. Gradually, I felt my strength returning.
As I embraced this holistic approach, I became more self-reliant, not just for myself but also as a mother and teacher. I learned to advocate for myself, actively seeking support when necessary. Sharing my experiences with my students fostered an environment of vulnerability and openness. I encouraged them to set their own goals, empowering them to take charge of their journeys.
My health continued to improve. Each day, I woke up with renewed purpose and determination. I understood that life would still present challenges, but I had developed the tools to face them head-on. My experience with illness had not weakened me; instead, it had ignited an inner strength I never knew I possessed.
Looking back, I realize that my journey has come full circle. I am not just a mother of five or a teacher; I am a resilient individual who learned the power of willingness, effort, and self-care. I share my story in hopes of inspiring others who might find themselves in a similar situation. Life is a precious gift, and it’s never too late to embrace change and cultivate a meaningful existence.
As I continue this journey, my mission is clear: to empower mothers, girls and women to embrace SELF CARE as the first big step to Self Reliance.