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Filling Cups and Showing Up
We’re often urged to “fill our own cups.” But if you’re in a relationship, there are times when you need your partner to contribute — or at least, show up.
Whether you are currently partnered, or not, “filling your cup” means taking time to replenish your stores of mental and spiritual energy in the ways that work best for you, while keeping in mind that each of us is unique. I might fill my cup by going on a walk with my dogs, watching a sunset, or dancing in my living room to eighties rock — you may appreciate a quiet afternoon, alone, sipping your favorite tea and reading a book. More extroverted people may crave time with friends or a night on the town. When I was raising young kids and money was tight, I loved having an occasional weekend afternoon to bake up a storm, while listening to “Prairie Home Companion” or Ira Glass and “This American Life.” Whatever activities best “fill your cup,’ it’s important to take the time to do those things and appreciate every moment. Because life will come rushing in again and you’ll need to draw on all of your inner resources.
Another way to describe “filling your cup” is simply, self-care. While we often think of this as physical care and grooming, the truth is, the concept is much broader. The problem is, when you’re down and…
