Although I believe that the will to live is inherent in being human, my mind tells me to focus on more urgent issues. Children are dying of malnutrition every day and I should be doing something about it, not thinking about myself.

In reality, doing something about poverty and thinking about my own needs aren’t either or situations. They are two sides of the same coin. It’s a wish to see people flourish, which has to include me as well as others.

Perhaps it’s too much to hope that every human being can flourish, but any structure (e.g. family, workplace or society) that doesn’t have it as an abiding principle will encourage a culture of violence or abuse.

The desire to live a longer, healthier life is not about clinging on, keeping what we have and taking what we can. It is a symbol for living a life to the full.

Taking care of ourselves may actually mean we aren’t a burden to others in our old age. As long as it isn’t at the expense of our other responsibilities, it may be one of the best things we could do.

Catherine