I spent nearly fifteen years in the Marine Corps. I cared about the work, the people, and whether my contribution made a difference. I still care about those things.
I thought I understood the difference between who I was and what I did. Leaving the institution made me look at that more closely. Without the familiar measures of progress, I found myself looking for new ones. Had I accomplished enough? Been useful enough? Done something that made the day count?
There were other things asking for my attention: my marriage, my family, my dogs, my home, my curiosity. I knew they mattered. I was still learning to give them time without feeling that I should be getting something else done.
Care. Don’t Carry. is a reminder I need, too.
I want to do meaningful work and take responsibility for my part. I also want to recognize when I’m carrying something that another hour of effort won’t solve, or letting work take time I meant to give to someone I love.
I’m still figuring that out. Wearing these words gives me a reminder in the middle of an ordinary day: I can care about the work and still put it down. And the message travels. Someone might read it in line for coffee, on a walk, or between meetings and find a reminder they needed, too. That’s why I wanted to put it into the world, where it could reach beyond me.
Do good work. Then go live.Emily
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