You come first.

I've read a lot of controversy over this quote lately. Some people really like it... as if we need to take care of our needs first, and others come after that. And that if we all take care of our needs first and then give to others next, we will all be fulfilled. Others don't like this quote because it speaks to selfishness and being self-absorbed, giving thought to the importance of giving to others and being selfless.

When I see these words, I'm reminded of the importance of self-care.
The importance of not giving only to others without reserving some of "you" for you.
The importance of other people respecting you and your time, commitments, and love.

When we put others first in our lives and deny ourselves the things that we need, we are letting people know that it's okay to take advantage of us. But when we set limits and boundaries with ourselves and others, we let them know that it's important to respect us. We're letting them know that we're open to helping, but not at the expense of ourselves.

When we are respectful of ourselves and put ourselves first, we're also expressing self-love. Which is more important than anything else. When we respect ourselves, others will respect us too.