I had an issue tonight that really sparked a fire inside the anger chamber. It pushed me to the edge where even I was ready to snip and fight.

It was my “I had enough!” moment.

I wanted to try out the loop process. This just happened, and it can help me feel a little calmer.

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What need is this emotion pointing toward?

• Acknowledgment of my needs.

Have I felt this need go unmet in the past?

• Yes, a lot. I am often an emotional support animal for others. I sometimes feel more is expected of me than others expect of themselves in the same situation. I have a long history of my efforts remaining unnoticed.

How can I meet this need today—even in a small, symbolic way?

• Passive-aggressive considerations aside, I think I can reinforce this need through self-care. This needs loop is a good start. Simply crocheting while listening to music is a good choice. I just need to take some time to show myself that I matter.

Who or what might help support this?

• My favorite radio station is a good start. I already turned it on. A relaxing YouTube video is another choice. Spreading out my thoughts into a cohesive layout like this is good. Also, a ball of yarn, crochet hook, and a lot of patience.

What boundary could I set or reinforce to protect this need in the future?

• Well, I asserted myself, and he got annoyed. I told him how I felt and how going above and beyond while sick didn’t seem reciprocal. Instead, he said he was unaware that “sick” was a competition. He missed the entire concept I was trying to lay out before him. Historically, he just needs time to think about it to understand my intended meaning, though.

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It is also good to note that I am still sick. This illness lowers my tolerance levels. It also increases my needs for “kind care.” That is playing a part in my overall annoyance. It is what it is, and it will pass.