I scroll by those posts on Facebook, the ones designed to
gather and sell Likes with their pithy quotes.
I saw one this morning, however, that has stuck with me all day: People
need to feel useful. Consider that akin
to the phrase most often used during tragedy: “If there’s anything I can do to
help, let me know.” I think this hits
the nail on the head as far as some of my relationships go, and one
relationship in particular. I don’t feel
useful to that person anymore. They don’t need my skills, my input, or really
my presence. I don’t think we have any animosity, but I don’t feel like they
need me for anything at all. I guess
that’s why I’m not included in much of their life anymore.
On the other extreme is being used. Some people will take all that you give, and
then take more. I’ve had relationships
where I wanted people to like me, so I gave of myself, only to realize later
that they were just using me to get what they needed without providing me with
anything in return.
So I am not advocating people who are users. But think about those in your life, what
skills they have, and whether you’ve taken them up on their offers lately. While some friends haven’t needed me around,
others have asked for me to join them but I’ve been too busy to take part. So I’m making an effort at carving out some
time for those who appreciate having me around, and will attempt to worry less
about those who don’t.
