I’m telling this story because I want you all to understand that when I say I get it, I really mean it. I’m committed to doing everything I can to make sure our national office provides world-class support to all its Alliance members. Because that’s where we’re improving and even saving lives—on the ground, in communities, one person at a time.

The reflection of myself in the mirror shows me a distorted reality. What I see is a two-ton Tessie, an overweight, ugly being. Someone who doesn’t deserve anything. This is body dysmorphia, and it is a real thing.

Body dysmorphia isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s just this persistent hum in the background—a cycle of self-criticism, shame, and comparison. A sick feeling when you look at yourself. A need to hide. A voice that takes every reflection and turns it into something cruel.

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition characterized by an excessive and distressing preoccupation with perceived flaws in one's physical appearance.

I don't usually take the time to relax and quiet the non-stop commentary in my head of things I want to to do, need to do, haven't done or could consider doing. I finished this book in two days on vacation, including staying up till 4am on Saturday night.

Even when you have put in the work, even when you have learned the tools or the art of setting boundaries, there may still be circumstances and people that you struggle to create or establish healthy boundaries with. Keep putting in the work. Your mental health will thank you. You owe it to yourself to set healthy boundaries and protect your peace.

Boundaries are very good to have, but when it comes to people who have experienced trauma, that can be a challenge. I think it is important to reflect on where you are in your life no matter what age you are, and understand that things can always be better if you focus on what can make a difference for you.

There are so many different ways to approach this issue. Boundaries at home, at work, with friends, with strangers.

Mental health gets more difficult the older we get. Things change rapidly and sometimes the elderly get left behind. I think we need to think about those around us that are getting older and what their needs might be.