Pouring From an Empty Cup
A short story about boundaries
Don’t deplete yourself for anyone, when you are empty emotionally who will fill your cup?~Author
All content is written by a human, not Artificial Intelligence
We each have our breaking point and reasons for helping a family member or friend.
Seldom do we imagine the tables of animosity turning on us when we extend ourselves to help others.
We utter things to ourselves like it’s my sister, college roommate or even my neighbor of course I will help them.
We rarely create boundaries for those we call friends, especially those blood-related relationships.
Spare yourself to protect yourself is what I have said to others. Set up boundaries for your emotional and mental health.
Create a checklist that you do not violate for anyone no matter the relationship.
1. Don’t loan money to anyone. If you want to give money as a gift that is your choice.
2. Do not tell anyone private matters that you don’t want to be repeated or used against you at some point if the relationship goes in another direction.
3. Certain relationships should be sacred and not exposed to human consumption (shared on social media).
I know the checklist is elementary for most but I have counseled many adults and parents of young adult children with these concerns.
Many have said to me over the years they have to put oxygen on themselves and the first crisis the family member becomes involved in they are running to the rescue.
Some people are pouring from an empty cup and wonder why they are exhausted, angry, bitter, mean-spirited, and callous.
Grass has to be watered or it will turn brown and dry up and die.
In other words, it is impossible to keep giving of yourself and no one pours into you and you thrive and become this vibrant happy person.
Create the boundaries that work for you and replenish yourself.
Thank you for reading.
Be Well!
