06/02/2026
Note from Melissa,
Happy Father’s Day Month!
Welcome to an exciting month where summer and warm weather are here; trips are planned and enjoyed, and the pool is open! More importantly, it is the month that we have the privilege of honoring our fathers. I’m including all men, regardless of being a father, because it applies.
I wish to encourage all the dads/men out there to remember to put your oxygen mask on yourself before you put it on others. As a very young child, I heard this statement as I buckled myself in my seat on an aircraft while traveling with my grandmother to Florida. I looked at this woman who claimed to adore me and thought, “no way she would take care of herself before taking care of me!” So, I asked her if she would indeed put her mask on before mine. Through her giggle she said, “I would have to. How could I help you if I was passed out?” I recall being shocked that she would take care of herself first, but her explanation allowed me to see that her need to protect herself first was the very thing that would save me, and that was love.
My husband often reminds me of this visual when I forget to set proper boundaries with others and overload myself with activities and busyness. Hopefully, this resonates with those of you who are bogged down with life’s demands, obligations, and responsibilities. My hope is that you choose to incorporate daily “oxygen mask” care for yourself, resulting in better care for those you love so dearly.
It doesn’t have to be a daunting process. This can come in the form of starting your day with a brief conversation with God to be your strength, give you endurance, and offer guidance on how to fulfil your responsibilities and purpose. It SHOULD also come in the form of taking care of your physical body by eating quality foods, getting adequate rest, embracing movement, taking the proper supplements, and having a good mentor that you can lean on for sound, Godly advice.
