I used to have trouble regulating my blood sugar. After one very frightening incident, I resolved to have food on me at all times – and I do mean all times. I even took an emergency snack with me to local restaurant outings in case the food wasn’t served fast enough. Depending on the situation, I would bring more or less food. 

The day I took a two-hour flight was no different. Because I had eaten right before my trip, was planning on eating right after, and knew that I would be offered a snack on the flight, I took a protein bar and some carrot sticks just in case.

On the flight I found myself sitting in the window seat next to a cute little girl with short dark brown hair and her mother. As soon as the plane starts to take off, the girl starts complaining that she was hungry. I heard her mother tell her that the flight attendant would offer her a snack soon, but the girl protested that she couldn’t wait.

Of course, I knew what it felt like to not to be able to wait. When my blood sugar began to drop, I needed to eat something right away.

Without hesitation I offered the more filling half of my emergency snack to the young girl–the protein bar. Her mother thanked me as the girl ripped open the wrapper, took a huge bite, and then promptly spit it out. She said it was gross.

My heart fell as I began to realize the enormity of my mistake. She obviously hadn’t needed the bar, but what if I did? Would carrot sticks be enough? Thankfully, I didn’t need the bar either.

I know my story isn’t unique. One of the reasons I’m so passionate about helping caretakers is I find we sometimes take care of others at our own expense. If this story resonates with you, it may be time to invest in yourself so that you can more effectively help others.      

Thanks for reading. I hope you have a safe and healthy month.