When Giving Gets Tough

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This draft post has been sitting in my drafts for ages, and I just haven't had the chance to get to it. So~
My dad, with his usual quiet wisdom, looked at me and asked, "We do know if people take us for granted, right, Kaklong?" I simply nodded, the answer caught in my throat. In that moment, a part of me whispered, "Oh, I know it all too well." But there was also this stubborn, hopeful thought swirling in my head: "Surely, they'd realize what they're losing if they took advantage of someone who cares as deeply as I do." It's a bittersweet hope, isn't it? The one that believes our unwavering love and effort will somehow make us indispensable, a shield against being undervalued.
That silent nod to my dad was a heavy one. Because deep down, the hope that people would recognize the effort and care I poured into them was always there. It’s a common feeling, isn't it? We invest our time, our energy, our heart into relationships—whether it’s with family, friends, or even at work—and we genuinely believe that our dedication will shine through. We think, "Surely, they'll see how much I value them, and they'll never want to risk losing that." It's a beautiful thought, a hopeful one, that our unconditional giving will create a shield against being taken for granted. We tell ourselves that our kindness is a currency, and eventually, it will be recognized and reciprocated.

But here’s the tough truth I’ve learned: Sometimes, that hopeful belief doesn't quite match reality. People can sometimes get so comfortable with your generosity that they start to expect it, almost as if it’s a given, like the air they breathe. They might not intentionally try to take advantage by being bad, or want to hurt us, but it happens. They see your willingness to help, to go the extra mile, and it becomes the new normal. And that’s when you, the giver, can start to feel a little hollowed out, a little unseen. It’s not about being selfish; it’s about recognizing that your kindness is a valuable resource, and like any valuable resource, it needs to be managed and respected, by both you and others.
And it's not a reflection of our worth or the love we give; it's just... life. And while it stings a little when you realize your outstretched hand isn't always met with the same thoughtfulness, it doesn't mean we should stop being who we are. It just means we need to learn how to keep our hearts open, but also protect them a little

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