"مع تقدمك في العمر ستكتشف أن لديك يدين واحدة لمساعدة نفسك والأخرى لمساعدة الآخرين"

As you get older, you start to realize that your hands aren’t just for you. One of them is meant to help you out, and the other is for assisting those around you. This idea is about balance. It’s about understanding that self-care and helping others are both crucial parts of life.

Think about it: when you’re young, you might be more focused on your own needs—understandably so. You’re figuring things out, learning who you are. But as you gain experience, you start to see the bigger picture. You notice that while it’s important to take care of yourself, it's also essential to lend a hand to those who might need it. This realization often comes with maturity and life experiences.

A vivid example of this can be seen in the life of Fred Rogers, the beloved host of "Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood." Throughout his career, he was always about kindness and caring for others—his “second hand.” He dedicated his life to teaching children and helping them navigate the complexities of growing up. But let's not forget that he also took time to care for himself, ensuring he could be present and effective in his work. He swam every morning, ate a healthy diet, and maintained a steady routine. This balance allowed him to be a pillar of support for many.

So, how do you apply this in your own life? Start with small steps. Think about your daily routine. Are you taking care of yourself? Eating well, getting enough sleep, maybe even doing some exercise? Once you’ve got that down, look around. Is there a colleague who’s struggling with a project? A neighbor who might need help with their groceries? Offering a bit of your time or energy can make a big difference in someone’s day—and it feels good, too.

Imagine you’re at a café with a friend who's overwhelmed by work and personal issues. They’re pouring their heart out, and you’re listening. That’s great—you’re using your “second hand.” But then you remember: you’ve skipped lunch, and you’re running on fumes. You can’t really be there for your friend if you’re not okay yourself. So, you take a moment to eat, maybe even suggest you both take a break and grab a snack together. Now, you’re helping yourself and your friend.

Here’s another scenario: You’re on a plane, and the safety instructions come on. “Put your own oxygen mask on first before helping others.” It’s a perfect metaphor for this idea. You can’t help anyone if you’re not breathing. So, prioritize your well-being, but don’t forget the importance of reaching out to others.

That’s the beauty of this concept. It’s simple yet profound. It reminds us that we’re all connected, and our hands—both of them—are tools for creating a balanced, fulfilling life. So next time you’re feeling swamped or isolated, just look at your hands. One for you, one for them. It’s a gentle nudge towards a better, more compassionate world.