Dear ((((Roomies))),

I wanted to share a small, but meaningful victory.

In my family, we are often so focused on my father, the A, that we neglected many daily self-care routines like brushing our teeth regularly, flossing, and because we were poor, there were many, many years when I didn't go to the dentist for routine cleanings and checkups. As a result of this small but significant neglect, I have had to have three root canals (cavity so deep it affects a root and has to be taken out and tooth replaced with a fake tooth called a crown). This is just one small example to me of how focusing on the A can really hurt me because it means my attention is focused on the NEXT CRISIS. So, in order to heal in this area, for the last few years, I have really focused on getting regular dental care and flossing regularly. Today, I went in for my six month checkup and teeth cleaning, and the dental hygenist told me I had excellent dental hygiene . Meaning she can tell that I am flossing regularly and really taking care of my teeth .

It meant alot to me to hear this affirmation--to hear from someone else whose judgement I trusted--that I REALLY am getting better! At sometimes, I am so overwhelmed by recovery, and so hard on myself, and I struggle so trying to figure out if I am making any progress at all. So, to hear, that I had gotten better in taking care of myself in this area was a small and meaningful victory.

Just wanted to share!

BlueCloud