Every "yes" is simultaneously a "no" to someone or something

About four months ago, at 36, I found myself in significant pain at a local urgent care from what I assumed was excessive boob sweat around my bra line (I live in New Orleans, so it was a fair assumption). I was relieved and horrified to find out I was not overly sweaty but had shingles.

The kind doctor who had also seen me the week before for what I thought was a heart attack, only to find out it was a panic attack, kindly placed her hand on my shoulder and said, "It might be time to reevaluate our life choices."

The truth was I was exhausted. I had hit the bottom and no longer knew how to return to the land of the living. But, I knew I would not get to where I wanted to go by taking the same path I was on. Anxiety-fueled ambition can only take you so far.

After my second kiddo, a dear friend handed me a copy of @sniequist book "Present Over Perfect." I am unsure that I have ever felt more seen, cared for, and called out before in my entire life. This and her next book, "I Guess I Haven't Learned That Yet," changed my life. Shauna, thank you for leaving breadcrumbs for other women to follow as we come home to ourselves. And thank you so much, @jlhirsch09 - I still have your book.