We do the
best we can—at least the best we can see to do—and then we quit. Whether
we quit to nourish the body with food and drink, to nourish the spirit with
play (whatever play is to us), or simply to rest, we all do, and should, quit
serving others as needed for our self-care. The author of my most
recommended book these days, Whole Brain Living, Dr. Jill Bolte
Taylor, says, "I find the more I play, the more interest and energy I have
for working. I wish everyone understood that."
Then do we
recognize when it is time to get back to work? That is easy enough when we
have made a commitment to our children or others on which our honor depends, or
a commitment to an employer, client, or patient on which our growth,
reputation—and paycheck—depend.
But don't we
have other important work?
Do we not
have work—important duties, though varied and often self-chosen—as citizens?
Obeying the law and expecting others to do so? Showing respect for
others—even when they seem not to reciprocate? Educating ourselves about
conditions in our community? Voting and volunteering to care for our
community? Seeking and speaking the truth in public matters, even when it
requires guts to do so?
If we believe
citizens have no duties, or if we admit we have such duties but neglect or
shirk them, or if we think ourselves excused until others better perform their
duties of citizenship, how dare we complain about the conditions of society?
