Why Self-Care is Important for Loving Others

Jesus challenges us in the Gospels to “love your neighbor as yourself.” But what if you struggle to love yourself? How can we pour ourselves out for others if we are not first filled up?
Today Fr. Mike challenges us to properly order our love for others, namely willing the good of the other by first willing our own good and setting clear boundaries so that we can love more fully.
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[@ChildofGod98765]

Jesus, I still trust in you even though I’m struggling paying bills and providing for my children, I was so ashamed I felt like a failure until I found Jesus. I lost my job because I declined the vaccine. I declined because of my pre existing health condition (Lupus) and Heart disease. I was denied my medical/religious exemption from Forsyth Hospital. My husband passed away three years ago, I’m a single mother. Both of my sons are autistic, they require a lot from me. Every month is a struggle, a battle to not end up on the streets. I’m so depressed and embarrassed by my situation. I post my story all over to spread awareness of what mandates are doing, not just to myself but to many other families. I’ve been put down and mocked because of my circumstances even criticize because I post my story, it truly hurts me. BUT even after all these things. GOD HAS PROVIDED. He has sent strangers to help me. I’m forever grateful! This is my testimony! GOD HEARS PRAYERS! EVEN as I face homelessness seemly every month with two young children. GOD SHOWS UP IN TIME to save me and my boys. ALL GLORY TO GOD OUR Heavenly Father Thank you Jesus.

[@jeanmariedenning62]

So many families have suffered simply because they chose to stand up for the truth regarding the vaccines! Try to build your immune system . Vit C, D3, Zinc A and E . And prayers. Immunity is far more effective than the insipid as well as dangerous experimental MRNA vaccines. Bless you!

[@CA-xk4ob]

🙏❤️💪🏻

[@t.f.9378]

Incredible!! Sorry it's been so hard for you. Ugh I can't imagine. You're such a strong person and God used that strength to challenge u💙

[@bajone02]

Hi Mousy. Been waiting for you to pop up again. I thought of something maybe to look into. There are so many YT channels that repackage info from other places and put it back out as a new train of thought. Pick any topic you have a passion for, watch / read several resources and then write your own script about what'ever info you learned. Mention all your sources

[@teehee4096]

why would you deny the vaccine that jesus created?

[@gracerizza8694]

I struggle with understanding where selfishness ends and self care begins.

[@josetomashameaudavanzo4954]

X2

[@kell_checks_in]

Maybe it would help if you imagined observing yourself from the outside. (Pretend you're one of the angels. : ) If you were observing someone else in your circumstances doing (or not doing) XYZ, would you approve or disapprove? And, of course, you can always pray and ask for insight.

[@barbraluce675]

It can be a thin line between the two. I pray over this frequently.

[@evaschroeder4020]

Balance I believe

[@musicandthewalk]

Same

[@CO2isfake]

Jesus says to love others as you love yourself. Pure genius and Godly wisdom. I believe it should be about the same.

[@gravytruck]

So if I don't particularly like myself I should treat others like trask?

[@urbard81]

Struggling with taking care of my Mom and an Aunt both in tneir 80s. I'm the sole caregiver and provider. There are days when I feel so tired, so stressed and so unappreciated. Listening to Fr. Mike made me stop and appreciate that self care is not being selfish. And that God has always provided for us. For that, I am eternally grateful to our Lord. ❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️

[@stephaniemartinez327]

God bless you!

[@MagdalenaIsaiah431]

@Mae Agne I just prayed a Hail Mary for you ❤️🙏✝️ Maybe ask your Guardian Angel to help you in your heavy labor of love, as well as the Guardian Angels of the two dear ladies you are so selflessly serving. I was just watching a video of a Saint who used to do so much to help so many poor people and struggled with physical weakness and her Guardian Angel would literally help her carry heavy pitchers of water that even a physically stronger person would have trouble lifting. He also helped her with other things as needed to carry out her Apostolate. I've also lately started talking with my own Guardian Angel and asking his help as often as I remember and I don't feel so lonely and alone when I do. And I'm finding that I really I'm receiving answers to the little requests I've been making, like help finding things I've misplaced or getting a good price when I'm making a purchase and helping me focus when I'm praying etc. Mary help of Christians Pray for Mae Ange❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏✝️✝️✝️

[@maric.7391]

@@MagdalenaIsaiah431 God bless you for sharing this advice, it really touched my soul. You and everyone are always in my prayers, God bless all 🙏🏻♥️🤗

[@sherrylyon5530]

The Good Lord will bless you ten fold for caring for them.

[@lois2997]

I have been there. It is stressful and hard. I took care of my mom. It was also rewarding. I got to share good memories with my mom, helped grant her wish to die at home etc.

[@mtshrhr3232]

I struggle a lot with self love. I am always the one that cares and loves everyone except myself. Thank you Fr. Mike!

[@bajone02]

I recently saw this kind of conflict in myself as an obedience problem. Really. We know helping others, esp those who need help so badly yet they still won't hardly accept our help. We spend all our energies trying to find a way to help without it looking like a big deal. But it's still very draining for us. But if we get OUR sleep, take 15 minutes silence to decompress just a bit, eat good enough food and drinking enough water, then we can be better for everything God has on our plate for each day. Be not afraid. God is with you always. Listen for answers in songs, you tube commercials that pop up, voices of friendly advice as well as those upset voices. Discernment is the key. Listen. Be thankful always. Smile. God loves you. Really.

[@droberts8703]

Never give up

[@evaschroeder5869]

Loving yourself is commanded. Love your neighbor as yourself not much more then yourself. I didn't love myself I hated myself I realized this was a sin I now do love myself. I should it is a sin to hate yourself. I love myself. This is why I don't care what others think.

[@Rattlesnake153]

As do I, and I'm grateful for this message.

[@jackhubert]

@@bajone02lol KZbin commercials that pop up? You’ve got to be kidding.

[@ShmurplesArePurple]

Jesus took time for himself a bunch in the Gospels and I think it's really important to remember that. The savior of the world, a literally perfect man, took time to himself and took care of himself as well as allowing others to take care of him

[@dannineharkins1667]

I'm your Protestant sister. This is the best thing I've ever heard. I'm a CNA and I love giving to others because it makes me feel good. I had difficulty with boundaries. I have not always taken care of myself well. It was a false humility. Thank you for your godly talk. I will care for myself better.

[@ianmackenzie686]

Only speaking for myself, I watch after myself, nutrition etc. primarily so that I'm not a burden to others. After that it is to be more helpful to others when they need it. Not taking *proper* care of your body, mind, soul, can be a sin. Proper care isn't selfishness.

[@phyllisatbraniff7097]

THX, I needed to hear that!! 🕊 🌹 🕯 My problem, it takes so much to take care of myself, & my disabilities, I become so lonely! 😥

[@ianmackenzie686]

@@phyllisatbraniff7097 Don't despair. For what it's worth I just said a prayer for you. Sin stinks and is the cause of all our woes: bodily, mental, spiritual. Keep doing what you can with what you got.

[@phyllisatbraniff7097]

@@ianmackenzie686 THX for the Encouragement, muvh needed!! God Bless You! 🙏 🕊 🕯

[@MagdalenaIsaiah431]

@@phyllisatbraniff7097 I suffer from depression and anxiety, with insomnia and anemia to liven things up. But I've found praying the 4 daily Rosaries a phenomenal tool to help my mental health. Nothing has ever succeeded in helping me beat that sinking feeling of doom and foreboding on a consistent basis before! I'm a Convert to Catholic Faith only a couple of years in and The Rosary is the Most POWERFUL Prayer devotion I have ever known. I can't imagine a day without my new "Best Friend!" Also Eucharistic Adoration when I can get to Church raises me to Heavenly places as I just sit there letting JESUS Love all my hurts away. And 3rd lately I've began talking to my Guardian Angel throughout the day as though he were really there with me and asking for his help. Guess what? I don't feel so long in my struggles anymore, as I remember to ask for his help as often as I can. Infact I just asked for help not 10 minutes ago with finding something I had misplaced and a thought came to me about where it might be and that's exactly where I found it in less than a minute❣️ Ah "The Communion of the Saints!" I *LOVE* being a Catholic because we have so many helpers in our huge eternal family located both here on earth and in Heaven!💖💖💖✝️ I'm saying a Hail Mary for you as soon as I finish this❤️❤️❤️ Virgin Most POWERFUL pray for us 🙏✝️❤️❤️❤️

[@MagdalenaIsaiah431]

@PhyllisAT Braniff I suffer from depression and anxiety, with insomnia and anemia to liven things up🙃 But I've found praying the 4 daily Rosaries a phenomenal tool to help my mental health as well as a boon to my physical health. Nothing has ever succeeded in helping me beat that sinking feeling of doom and foreboding on a consistent basis before! I'm a Convert to Catholic Faith only a couple of years in and The Rosary is the Most POWERFUL Prayer devotion I have ever known. I can't imagine a day without my new "Best Friend!"❤️❤️❤️🙏 Also Eucharistic Adoration when I can get to Church raises me to Heavenly places as I just sit there letting JESUS Love all my hurts away.✝️✝️✝️ And 3rd lately I've began talking to my Guardian Angel throughout the day and asking for his help as though he were really there with me and I could consult his wisdom and his loving guidance since GOD assigned him the role of helping me navigate my way through this perilous life and he, who loves and obeys my heavenly Father perfectly will never fail to lead me the right way out of Love for our Father and for the weak human creature he has been commissioned to help❣️❣️❣️ Guess what? I don't feel so lonely in my struggles anymore, as I remember to ask for his help as often as I can. Infact I just asked for help not 10 minutes ago with finding something I had misplaced and a thought came to me about where it might be and that's exactly where I found it in less than a minute❣️ Ah "The Communion of the Saints!" I *LOVE* being a Catholic because we have so many helpers in our huge eternal family located both here on earth and in Heaven!💖💖💖✝️ I'm saying a Hail Mary for you as soon as I finish this❤️❤️❤️🙏✝️ Virgin Most POWERFUL pray for us 🙏✝️❤️❤️❤️

[@deedlebug60]

Thank you so much. After 48 years of marriage I made a New year Resolution to do self-care. I had to if I was going to survive another year. It was the best decision I ever made. No more guilt. Praise God for this wisdom. Thank you.

[@Alma.-]

May I ask you what type of self-care you did? I feel that I need to do the same but I don’t know how!

[@kell_checks_in]

@@Alma.- Not a complete list: Journaling. Making a Bucket List (with space for ongoing additions) and making plans for pursuing an item on the list. Chatting with helpful people online (while guarding your privacy!) Being goofy. Playing games. Diving deep into a hobby. Getting educated on an issue important to you. Getting artsy. Getting enough sleep. Getting organized in ways that make your life less stressful. (continued)

[@deedlebug60]

I signed up for a Pilate class and stuck with it and lost 45 pounds.

[@florenciamitrovich605]

I truly believe Jesus spoke to me through you, its EXACTLY the answer to my question to Him, thank you

[@dodi3075dasr]

Father Mike mentioning Jordan Peterson and 12 rules for life 🤩🙏

[@geraldine7981]

I’ve been called selfish for putting myself first and worries of my own problems by some of my coworkers when I don’t put energy of their nonsense at work. Thanks a lot for this message.

[@armint2717]

After years of hearing your videos Fr. Mike, I finally came across this one. And yet it’s the one, it seems, I probably should’ve seen first. But even if I had, it wouldn’t have had the same effect as it does today. I’ve always seeing myself as worthless, unworthy of love and afraid of hurting others and being hurt. Once I began to grow in my faith a few years back I saw myself as a slave to God, that my life had purpose only as to which I could be of use to others. I’ve always been so quick to help others and neglect my own care. Thinking that if I could be a “martyr” for others and love others, that my life would have meaning and that’s what God wanted. And yet this past year I’ve began to notice that doing good deeds for others yes, is love, but not complete love. Not authentic. I remember first praying over “The Greatest Commandment”, to love God, and our neighbor as ourselves. And I’ve always seen myself stop at the “as ourselves” part. That’s been the part I’ve known I’m not living out. Because I’ve hated myself, my mistakes, my downfalls, my habitual sins I’ve struggled with. And yet God has shown me, looking back, so many times this past year and in my life in general how much He’s loved me. Yes, He’s shown love to others, but to me individually as well. So many people in my parish have shown me so much love, I’ve been loved by Him through them. It’s almost as though He’s been telling me in exclamation marks how much He loves me. And yet I’ve closed my heart off at times. Now I realize that I need to be humble, just let myself be loved. Let myself be loved and not rely on my own strength, but rather, rely on Him working through me. I need to let myself be loved to be able to truly love others, letting Him love Him through me out of His boundless goodness. Thank You Fr. Mike Schmitz

[@judyr.2398]

When I was taking care of my elderly mother, I wondered every single day IF and how Mother Theresa took care of HERSELF.

[@bajone02]

She prayed without ceasing. God helped her with the rest. She said she was just a pencil in God's hands. Takes a lot of docility to follow God so closely. Esp with work she accepted. I have wondered in just the last few days if Mother Theresa only experienced the dark night of the soul on occasion, but because she wrote it down, and not the consolations, if people misinterpreted her person journals. It is easier to write down the negative side in our pleas for help, but those true consolations are hard enough to accept as possibly being real much less to be able to put into writing the intense joy of being directly recognized by God. So she left those words out and all people who looked at her journals saw were the empty times God gives us to take a break from the intense love. He's just that kind of Father.

[@marystenson2852]

I was thinking the same 🙏❤️👍she also lived in community I imagine that’s a strength

[@nicolesneedle3868]

I am in tears. I am a mother of three (6,5, and 2.5), at least one of whom is autistic and I very recently discovered I have ADHD. I had been feeling so torn and guilty that I had continued with my childcare arrangement for the summer even after my part time job was put on hold. Feeling guilty that I was having someone else do "my" job despite the fact that my husband and I had been deeply burned out the last few years and even knowing the hold at work was likely Providential... thank you for calling me out when I needed it and please pray that the message sinks in that I too am worthy of care.

[@isabelharden7304]

❤❤❤ The Lord will always support you! I am praying for you !

[@wallinmk]

I cannot tell you how much I needed this tonight.

[@debbiereitmulder2151]

Same here.

[@he.is.real40]

God bless you Kristin!! ✝️

[@BlackWingedSeraphX]

My mom needs to hear this. She wastes time worrying about my dad and doesn't look out for herself.

[@rosemariekury9186]

I am just like your mom. I worry about my husband a lot since he’s in poor health. But lately I’ve been getting out a bit more because you need to do that. I’m 78 and my mom died at 79 or a sudden heart attack. She too worried about my dad but didn’t get out much herself and should’ve. Try and tell your mom this because if you yourself are sick, you’re not able to do anything. Even a short walk helps! Hope your mom does this!❤️❤️❤️

[@BlackWingedSeraphX]

@@rosemariekury9186 Thank you so much for your advice and kindness. God bless you, miss. And I hope you live a longer healthy life! Who knows, you could make it to 100!

[@kimberlyrose2092]

Start with the fruits of the Spirit. Show Love, Joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control to yourself. ✝️

[@junequinn4312]

I just can't love myself because I didn't do all I could have done for my children, I see the things other mothers did for their children and how they grew up, my children have suffered because of the things I didn't do for them

[@junequinn4312]

I just can't love myself because I didn't do all I could have done for my children, I see the things other mothers did for their children and how they grew up, my children have suffered because of the things I didn't do for them

[@kimberlyrose2092]

June, I do not know your story. I do know Jesus set you free when he died on the cross. You can start anew from this moment forward. It's not easy as a human, but I beleive God when he says all things are possible through Him. Prayers.

[@elizabethtrujillo541]

For so long I felt that I needed to always show mercy on others who damaged me.. never knowing when to cross the line, let's just say "70 x 7" was reached. As I contemplated on lifting a restraing order for domestic violence my guilt attacked me on seeking revenge and seeing 360 but this video.. Fr.Mike spoke the words that I've needed to hear. This is my testimony 🙌

[@mateo2724]

The best way to cultivate self love is by making decisions today that your future self will thank you for tomorrow

[@Lolo-lt2lf]

Sending this to my mom

[@berthahernandez2209]

Unfortunately there is a lot of lack of self-love in this world. Prayers for all to embrace self-love. We are all God’s children. He loves us. Let’s love ourselves and each other 🙏🏼❤️

[@monicageorge8010]

So thankful to hear this today. Very much a wow moment.

[@BlackWingedSeraphX]

Asking for help thing is so true. I missed out on YEARS of progress, that I coulda had done in a day, had I just asked for help! It's a matter of personal pride.

[@bajone02]

You are singing my song. My recent revelation is the delays in my response were largely spiritual warfare. he ( notice the case) does his darndest to distract us with even good things that just aren't the best things. So you took the bate, God made good out of it still, set you in the path again. Rince, repeat. BUT you are wiser now as you wake up from that spiritual brain fog. So dream big. Bestir yourself. Don't look back. God has great tasks for you. Stay in state of grace much as possible for best progress. Matthew Leonard has a program you might like if you want to commit to it. Same for the folks at Avila Institute. Stay strong

[@wildcard4552]

For anyone who is reading this. Pray for me and many more who struggle with utter self hatred and negative thoughts especially in a state of mortal sin. Pray for us. This temptation of self isolation and thoughts about everyone saying hurtful things to me and to the point of abusing myself mentally by hurting myself by telling myself horrible things is mentally, physically nd spiritually crippling. It hurts my heart and my soul. Its become a habit of mine. Whenver i feel like someone is neglecting me (i probably just feel it and the person or people are just midning their own lives) I got cruel to myself because I know nd i believe that there something rong with me but instead of seeking hope, I seeks despair and self hatred. Ever since I fell to one mortal in, i kept cycling down, down. Although there are times i have been lifted up by he LORD significantly and greatly but this self hatred, negativity is slowly getting worse day by day, most especially when I thought I have ruined my friendship with someone i like. This self hatred is debilitating and i find myself slowly getting tired of hoping. Please. Pray for me. Please pray that I nd many more others would be able to get to confession.

[@michaelanthony4750]

Will do! There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Keep building virtuous habits and soon everything will be better.

[@wildcard4552]

@@michaelanthony4750 It did my fellow brethren it did. God has restored me to Himself and continues to draw me closer and the people in my life closer to Him. Continue to pray for us, i will pray for you in my next rosary :))

[@michaelanthony4750]

@@wildcard4552 Thanks!

[@geidicalcagno]

OH MY JESUS FORGIVE ME FOR ALL MY SINS, I PROMISE TO BE CAREFUL NEXT TIME, NOT TO COMMIT THEM AGAIN. MY LORD THANKSGIVING FOR MY HEALTH SINCE IAM TAKING MY MEDICATIONS I HAVE MORE THAN 3 YEARS WITHOUT CRISIS, I SET UP MY CELL ALARM 3 TIMES A DAILY AND CARRIE MY MEDICATIONS WHEREVER I GO RELIGIOUSLY I MEAN WITH LOVE AND RESPECT IM LEARNING DISCIPLINE AND POSITIVE THINGS TO ADD TO MY LIFE. AFTER ALL THAT I HAVE GREAT AND STEDY JOB. I BELIEVE JESUS GAVE ME THE SOLUTION A LONG TIME AGO, BUT I WAS NOT OBEDIENT. NOW HE SAYING ME THAT HE CURED ME. THANKS BE TO GOD AND THE HOLY CATHOLIC CHURCH.

[@MrDarshD]

Treat and see yourself as someone worth taking care of. Thank you Father Mike! Such an important video and message!

[@ivorybow]

For the first time in my long life, I closed the door on a friend. I allowed it to go on for too long, because I was so confused about being loving as I believed Christ had commanded me. This person had become such a source of stress and distress for me that those feelings were taking over my life. I didn't know for sure but I believe this person was addicted to morphine. I couldn't find a way to have a confrontation. I have felt guilty and confused, but at the same time, once I stopped the relationship, I felt freed and released. I have had great difficulty knowing where that line was, to the point I was taken advantage of repeatedly. Thank you for this, to help sort this out.

[@marystenson2852]

Yes, too much for any of us to deal with, so glad you saw the light, it may have saved your life- who can say?pray for this person and hand this person over to Him and let Him take care of it all. 🙏👍❤️

[@lizb853]

I have never been really loved in my entire 75 years by my family. I was tolerated yes but loved in any form. Absolutely not. As a result not only do I NOT, love myself, but I don't even believe that love even exists. To my way of thinking there's respect, admiration, kindness and tolerance and acceptance, but LOVE? That's very nice in childrens fairy stories, but in the real world. I just CAN'T accept that. So yes! Love is a HUGE issue for me.

[@nicolemarie4889]

The secret Jordan Peterson shout out, I see you fr mike 👀

[@Annavae1111]

I literally just googled tips on self care without being selfish 20 minutes before I saw this video… so I’m taking this as a sign that I should make an effort in loving myself. I need to be free from irrational guilt and let myself be loved. Thank You so much for this.

[@geetadsouza2888]

Thank you so much Father for your beautiful and meaningful words on this imp subject! I have become more stronger in my faith ever since i have started watching your videos on daily basis!! You are truly a God sent angel for us !!

[@shellieblack528]

Father Mike I actually had to reach out to a professional because I could give and my job celebrates that and then I was left wondering if I disappeared would people miss me or miss what I could do for them. And you so correct.......I learned that I have a choice. And sometimes that choice is "no". Just thank you and may your steps continue to be blessed!

[@NessaRossini...]

Thank you, Father. 3 Hail Marys for you. 🙏🏼🙏🏽🌹

[@michaelanthony4750]

Ever since I learned this concept it has been revolutionary. Remember Jesus final two commandments. 1. You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. 2. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. How do you love yourself? Make sure your heart, soul and mind are well taken care of and oriented toward God.

[@GenericAssUsername]

You are worth taking care of. You are worth the blood and water that flowed from the beloved Son. There is a cost to love, but it pales in comparison to the cost of not loving.

[@sammyc9617]

So very timely! So many people in healthcare need to hear this right now! God Bless! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@pattyespinoza8902]

Thank you! My husband, may he rest in peace, asked me one morning to please make sure I take care of my like I used to take care of him and the children. There are times when I smile at myself , I make sure to eat healthy, and if there is something reasonable that I want, I tell myself if I would buy it for someone else, why not for me. God is absolutely amazing. I love him SO much. God bless all of you.

[@rosealenius-spencer4823]

We are temples of the Holy Spirit. Take care of that temple!❤️🙏🏻

[@joyjones6927]

“Who’s going to take care of me? Who is going to love me or validate me,” are questions I ask myself daily.

[@KittysDawn]

Christ said God will do that. To have no fear. One way or another, you'll get your basic necessities. Don't sell out God's will in other ways to meet your own needs. Do not compromise Christ's direct teachings because of clever wording. Do you know Christ praised a widow who gave her last two pennies as worth more than anything gifted by all others who had plenty to give? He didn't say "Oh man she should have LOVED HERSELF huh? Then she'd have more to give!" No, he praised her knowing she was willing to give even that which she couldn't afford to give.

[@sandyv2195]

I know this can be a struggle as it's something I, too, think about as I age. But I also know I need to trust in God's provision. He knows my needs and will never abandon me. Reading scripture helps me to have an eternal, rather than temporal, perspective. Matthew 10:29-31 is a comfort, but there are many more comforts to be found in God's Word to us. God bless you.

[@Kokplimddd]

In school the teacher who usually works well with the needy, teaches us about validation and we stand up in class and were assigned to someone to do validation and present it to the class. I felt loved then. Even without tone

[@james.1975]

May God continue to Bless you and your family and ministry Fr. Mike and the whole team at Ascension ❤

[@AscensionPresents]

We're grateful for your generous gift, James, thank you!

[@DanielWSonntag]

I take care of my dad 24/7 now, so this has been a learning journey in "self-care". Also, having previously lived such a selfish life, I have to be careful not to go back to that way. Going to God and letting Him fill me never fails.

[@IONov990]

I am an extreme procrastinator so it looks like I do not love myself enough. Most of my problems are self-inflicted. I hate accepting my limitations. I need to realize everyone needs help. I usually do not need physical assistance because thankfully I have a healthy body but I am someone who needs emotional support because I am easily discouraged but I should not be so emotionally dependent on others.

[@t.f.9378]

Wow we sound so similar. I relate to everything you said in that

[@marystenson2852]

Wow! Now you have started, keep going👍💪🙏❤️you are not alone🙏🙏🙏

[@mariyadepeche1658]

I think that first we have to know what love is. So often in our society it’s defined as over-indulgence and feelings. I’m learning that it’s a commitment to willing the good of others despite feelings. But to do that, we have to keep ourselves healthy - spiritually as well as physically & mentally. I’ve had a daunting struggle with self-hatred and PTSD/ various anxiety disorders on top of that. Self-destructive behavior was the norm for me. The past couple of years, I’ve finally reverted to our Holy Catholic Church and I thank Jesus Our Precious Lord for not giving up on me. Finally I’m feeling like I’ll very soon, through the Grace of God and the prayers of our Holy Mother Mary, to be sane and healthy enough to help others more rather than being a burden to them. Thank you 🙏🏼 Fr. Mike. Your videos have been a big help on my crazy 😜 journey this year. Your BIAY has helped to give structure to my days à la the Rule of Saint Benedict. I’ve been studying his Rule and within his Ora et Labora I have been attempting to give my life structure and sanity. Sorry if I strayed off-subject, but I think that the Benedictine daily rhythm is helping my health on all three levels - put spiritual first, but also include mind and body because we are primarily spiritual beings but one cannot separate that from the mental & physiological. Then after ordering our own life so that we can be as healthy as possible, we can be best-equipped to take care of others. As Fr. Imbarrato says, “Take care of those whom Our Lord puts in our path each day. “ Thanks y’all for reading this. Greetings from Catholic Oklahoma. Pray the Rosary every day. Please pray for me that I stay on the Holy path of Jesus’ Catholic Church until we all meet in Heaven. 💕💖🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼📿🕊🌻🎼🎶📿Viva Christo Rey!!! God bless Fr. Mike and all others here. Blessings to all.

[@MagdalenaIsaiah431]

Love your testimony ❣️ I'm a Convert to Catholicism and I Love the ROSARY PRAYER because it has almost single-handedly saved my very fragile mental health. It helps beat back the demons of depression and anxiety in an amazing and unfailing manner daily and gives me a boost of physical energy and Joy to face my day as needed ❣️ I pray all 4 Rosaries daily as often as I can. So I'm doing good on the "Ora" part but I definitely need to do more on the "Labora" part so I can have a good balance. I haven't really read the Rule of St. Benedict but you've inspired me to look it up, so that's my new homework from here😇 Virgin Most POWERFUL pray for us 🙏✝️❤️❤️❤️

[@sandyv2195]

God bless you! 🙏

[@sandyv2195]

@@MagdalenaIsaiah431 God bless you! 🙏

[@annieh1315]

I've been struggling with identifying this line for years, and I've given of myself to the point of burnout. It's been 10 years since my burnout, and I haven't fully recovered yet. This helped. Thank you, Fr. Mike.

[@matturibe539]

Treat yourself like you’re someone you care about

[@worldcitizen7773]

I got it Father! Boundaries are necessary and I am not the savior. Thank you so much!

[@Hatsuu20110]

I've always been thanking God for his love for me but constantly remind myself I am unworthy. Earlier today after church, an old lady came up to me and told me, "I appreciate you". I never had many interactions with that old lady and I don't remember doing anything to her that made her say that. But after watching this a thought came to me, maybe this is God's way of telling me to cherish myself and that I am worthy of love. That maybe I should stop telling myself that I'm not worthy and accept the love that's being given to me. Thank you Father Mike, I never would've realized this on my own. I pray for you every night, god bless.

[@analuciaserranosilvestro1323]

Sometimes we think that our mission is to love others but we forget about ourselves. Thank you Father Mike for your reflection about it. 🙏

[@Addi111]

Love someone AS yourself.

[@jerryhoffmann8828]

Father, You just blew my mind! Thank for all of your teachings. I am new to your channel but am loving it ❤

[@thingsihate_3333]

Was you're intention to make me cry Fr Mike? Because you did and now I just can't seem to stop. I think seeing your face looking directly in my eyes...I think that's the first time ever, in my 30 plus years of life, that anyone, ANY PERSON I KNOW, has ever said that...."You are worth taking care of." No one, has ever said that to me before. And the sincerity with which you said it, the intense eye contact....I can't stop crying now...

[@heisseblonde6837]

“No is a complete sentence.” I love this! 🙏🏻❤️

[@SoulfulRose]

Thank you. I needed to hear this. 🙏🏿

[@danib3645]

PREEEEEEEAAAAAACH.

[@AveMaria1917]

St. Teresa of Avila understands. Dear Jesus and St. Teresa of Avila, Pray for the community here

[@damoon2631]

You must take care of yourself but not at the expense of others! If I don't take care of myself how will I be able to take care of others if and when the need arises!

[@timmyj2366]

My mom is a devout lifelong Catholic who struggles with the concept of self love. When I introduced her to the idea a number of years ago it angered her to the point of concern. Truth is, it’s highly unlikely that you can have a loving relationship with God if you can’t have one with yourself. One of the best paths to discovering God is through a self love journey. Because God resides deep in our hearts, if you don’t live a heart centered life, you won’t find God.

[@marystenson2852]

I understand what you mean, let you be the one to give little treats to your mother- she has had nearly a lifetime of service done (probably at great personal cost) and it can be hard to change. Send her thoughtful cards, flowers, let her know of your love. She will see in you the fruits of her labours, go gently 🙏👍❤️

[@Weiweisunn]

I really need it right now. This video is a gift from god🙏

[@matthewandrous]

I love Michael Hyatt! He is a deacon in the Orthodox Church in fact.

[@mynameisYumi]

One of the lines that gave me a breakthrough about self-love came from the cartoon Steven Universe, which goes something like "when you love yourself, that's me, loving you!" I think it so often feels like loving yourself takes effort, like we have to be the ones doing the loving (cos who else will), in much the same way we have to care and be responsible for ourselves. But in reality, it's God who does that. Love, like Fr Mike says, comes from God first. To love yourself is to claim God's love for yourself, to accept it even if you don't feel worthy. So if you don't feel like you're up to love yourself, giving yourself permission to be loved by God and by others is good as well.

[@michelleferrao8888]

Thank you Fr Mike 🌟 “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. “This is the first and great commandment. “And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” Matthew22:37-39. To love God with all our heart & soul in the midst of all the seasons in our life. Learning to love ourselves prepares and helps us to show grace, act with compassion, serve & forgive our neighbour🌻

[@89sn00py]

I heard once from a wise man: 'Admitting that I have needs is not selfish. Demanding them to be satisfied is selfish. '

[@quietmountainwellness7916]

So beautifully said. 🙏🏻❤️

[@Anna-mc3ll]

Thank you for sharing this message!

[@17CW68fNv]

Thank you Fr Mike...these are ideas we don't often give much thought to. God bless. Claire.

[@kathann1999]

Thank you, what you have just said is what I needed to hear right now

[@anumarianus6745]

I wept when I was watching this video Father... I have been praying for the grace to love myself (i really don't think I am worth being loved and valued).. i believe Jesus spoke to me through you. I also pray that you will be an overflowing bowl rather than a pipe... God bless you father!

[@onyinyechukwu]

Jesus loved you so much that He died for you! You are definitely worth being loved. The world and people around you might not show you that, even you might not love yourself, but believe me when I say there are people who are praying for you, Fr Mike loves you and God is looking at you lovingly. He only wishes that you would look up and see acknowledge his loving gaze. When I feel down and unloved, I simply ask the Holy Spirit to wrap me up in His loving embrace, and perfect peace settles on me.❤

[@peterlindal3352]

Hello dear, you are a Temple God chose to Dwell in, he loves you so much, i pray he gives you peace and Joy, remember you are Gods child, and his light, be kind and merciful to yourself, like God is! God bless you!

[@pattihuke2992]

Beautiful explanation of self care.

[@RocknRoRose]

Oh no whats the music? Haha. So yes i have been involved in self care for the month of May. I didn't celebrate my bday because of my best friend being sick 2 years ago but when i saw him die 23 days before he died, he had so much peace and gave me so much peace. So the month of my birthday i had self care. Thank you Patrick. May you Patrick rest in peace while walking in heaven.

[@annkreager1996]

"You're limited". Father, I needed to hear this. Thank you

[@jeannedarc5351]

I think we give medication to pets and not ourselves because animal suffering is useless, but human suffering doesn't have to be. So, I think there's this battle between suffering well versus suffering needlessly.

[@caterinadc5567]

Be an overflowing bowl, not a pipe. Noted!

[@LauraC-hq7sm]

I can totally relate to how we are so consistent with giving our pets medication. Pets give us so much love we treat them like family.

[@carolinenorman6141]

There is a wonderful comment in the twelve step program. " WHEN WE CONCENTRATE ON OUR OWN RECOVERY GOD SORTS OUT ALL THE THINGS WE CANT CONTROL. JESUS TELLS US TO LOVE OURSELVES ITS SELF CARE NOT SELFISH.

[@SilverCottage]

"No is a complete sentence." I LOVE IT.

[@jansonmur4362]

I too read Jordan Peterson book and it was fantastic

[@babybeckyandmarkytravels4208]

I have a hard time loving myself. I always take care of everything and everyone but me. I love you father. I loved your talk so nice to hear because some of us need to love ourselves 🥰🥰💗💗

[@kathrynjenkins9183]

It was only my husband and I bringing up our kids, we had no family help and as the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child! But western life has become so disassociated and family doesn’t want involvement anymore, but there has been no shortage of love in our tiny family unit.

[@giorgiaalexanderactingothe1892]

I’m so glad you posted this today! I’ve been seeing some misinformation spreading about this in communities of believers. I will watch when I get off work :)

[@jakesasak3448]

This is way better than the world's "self care" and do what makes you happy and feel good

[@jamesnoriega4698]

Father Mike, you are the man. Thank you for your inspiration and wisdom. You've definitely saved some lives

[@annaabesa]

I needed this so much. Thank you.

[@TarebeartheWriter]

The Holy Spirit is talking to me through KZbin autoplay. Needed this ❤️

[@marieroche9282]

In a perfect world, Father. This ain't a perfect world yet.

[@stephaniemizepfe8997]

As a teacher this was a very empowering thing to listen to before the school year begins.

[@KIMMYSSONG]

Blessings

[@kell_checks_in]

A note, being single doesn't always equate with more free time. If you're working full time and maintaining your home yourself, you may well be busier than someone who is sharing all those chores with another adult.

[@redblue5868]

Thank you so much.

[@pauletteladucer202]

Golly, was just talking with my husband about this very thing!

[@chomperthefirst533]

May I be an overflowing bowl of God’s love. Amen. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 Thank you Jesus.

[@Lolo-lt2lf]

He makes a REALLY good point about if other people talked to us like we do to ourselves sometimes, there would be fights

[@andi3739]

I needed to hear this. Thank you for sharing!

[@emilymckellar7443]

"You are worth taking care of." I've been trying to convince myself of that for over 5 years.

[@CaptBlackCamaro]

I would love to hear you and Mr. J Peterson talk about self care in relation to The Lord. Would be awesome!

[@hittingthewall]

"No" is a full sentence. Thank you for the reminder.

[@Raiden-pi3gt]

Amen

[@KnightGeneral]

So true. When my depression moments attack me, I don’t have the energy to serve in any way. That’s why Im committed as well with self-care: Healing, Therapy, Counseling, Healthy lifestyle. Thank you fr. for reminding me! I’m taking care of myself so I can serve well for Christ.

[@thecolorfulchristian]

Wow, this is one of the most powerful videos for me. I needed to hear this, this is a reminder coming from someone who has always felt like they are not doing enough. I'm going to keep watching this as a reminder for myself, to remember that I am not the savior of others. We are a body, not just a singular person. Thank you Father Mike, you continue to enlighten my path towards God. Many blessings to you!

[@mariachijazmin3970]

Just what I needed to hear. I grew being taught of putting others before myself. I am horrible at self care.

[@petergarcia8225]

Goes the saying our body is a temple, treat it as such so we can take care of ourselves and others..