Do you listen to your body? Do you ever get down to just basics? What keeps you going?

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This is often hard for me to do. We all have our duties, responsibilities, and obligations. It's just part of life. Whether we are single or have a partner in life, children or no children, jobs, homes to care for, elderly or sick family...we have obligations and people we care about. I know that's just normal life for most of us. I have always been one of those people who have what might be called too much determination to make it through a crisis, or a hard time, or just a tough patch of life. I realize that my attitude has helped to shape me into who I am today. I can't change that, nor would I want to. It's just part of the person I have come to be. Last night, I realized I am just pushing myself too hard. I've been going until I can't go anymore, then resting, then a rinse and repeat thing. If not for my daughter and son in law, along with a friend who is aware of our situation, I think this last week or two I would have just screamed ''Uncle! OK, you got me!'' but thankfully, I did not do that, nor do I want to. I realized I need to pay more attention to myself and my own needs--not necessarily wants, just needs. The basics, food and life's demands are enough to do for me, but then I have to allow myself more time to just...be me. I'm tired most of the time. My rest is often interrupted. I know the way to my son's treatments and appointments and such by heart, I think I could drive that path in my sleep...I have been trying to rest more. If I don't, I'm no good to myself or to anyone at all. I gave myself a stern talking-to! I have come to learn to absolutely treasure the sweet moments. The text or call from a child or grandchild, that just says, I love you. The friend who comes over with an unexpected surprise of a food treat for my son that he loved, or the joy of him enjoying something simple, like a better day or knowing that we are all trying to get through all of this together. The hope alone carries me through many a hard circumstance. The main thing for me, is don't forget the hope, the joy, and the love. It keeps me going. What keeps you going?