Surrounded by takers

When you set yourself up to be a giver.
You strive to be a blessing to others, a desirable company,
needed and appreciated,
And you don’t set some boundaries
Not before it’s too late,
Not to prove a point
But to remain engaged and present and fair

Lately I don’t feel valued
As everyone who calls seems to want something
Need something.

And then there is my family
With their valid needs

But they want things and time and attention.

I strived to become less of a burden
Too early
Now I resent when my kids don’t follow in my footsteps
Though I don’t know if that would be healthy in the long run

Oh, to feel seen, loved, accepted, wanted
Not because you are a good performer, employee
and thoughtful daughter in law
A generous mom and skilled wife

But be delighted in just because
As a friend
As a person

The alternative is to be left alone
When I run on empty I retreat
so I don’t have to face the reality
that I have very little to give
And I am too afraid to be rejected