because you love her

Imagine your best friend, daughter, sister or the woman you love comes to you - depressed - because she feels unattractive, insecure and alone. And, think about how quickly you would reassure her that she is beautiful and surrounded by support.

BECAUSE YOU LOVE HER

Now, imagine she comes to you - in pain - because years of not prioritizing her health is catching up with her. And, think about how quickly you would encourage her to make changes to her lifestyle to relieve that pain; to improve her quality of life.

BECAUSE YOU LOVE HER

And, then, imagine that she comes to you - ashamed - because, try as she might, she can’t lose the weight; can't get herself healthy. And, think about how quickly you would beg her not to give up; reassure her that prioritizing her health is going to be worth the effort.

BECAUSE YOU LOVE HER  

Now imagine that woman you love is YOU. Will you - can you - show yourself the same unconditional support, kindness, empathy, care, concern, and encouragement?

BECAUSE YOU LOVE HER

Sometimes, the hardest person to love is the person we see in the mirror and it can feel selfish when we put ourselves first.

But the truth is: if we fail to care for and love ourselves first, then it becomes hard - if not impossible - to effectively care for others: spouses, children, parents, friends.

So, on this day of love, take the advice that you would give someone you care about and invest in yourself and your health.

Love YOU

....and, Happy Valentine's Day!