Keeping Up

"Before you try to keep up with the Joneses, be sure they're not trying to keep up with you." - Erma Bombeck, columnist

Erma Bombeck could always get my attention with her humorous quotes. I love this one and I must say she's right. If those Joneses are trying to keep up with me and I'm trying to keep up with them, we will never catch up with each other - ever!

I'm reminded of something else when I read this quote. I tend to be a bit codependent at times and there was a period in my life when I was suffering from my need to be needed. A very good friend of mine shared this thought with me - before I get all of my ducks in a row, make sure they're all my ducks! What a concept!! It never occurred to me that I should be concerned only with those issues that apply specifically to me. When I do this, my life is much more peaceful and serene. I've learned that people don't need me to take care of them. I can do things for others out of kindness but I do not want to do things for others in order to get their attention and their love. That doesn't work for me anymore.

So, the game plan for me is as follows - I will take care of my ducks only and I promise to warn the Joneses about trying to keep up with me.  Getting caught up in those kinds of cycles is never productive for me. A great big thank you goes out to all of you who've helped me learn these valuable lessons. I love you all! Namaste to all!