They Not Like Me

 Sometimes I forget that people aren’t like me.

That not everyone has the same heart.

That not everyone will go out of their way just because they care.

I catch myself doing things for others—

little things, big things—

thinking, “If they were in my shoes, they’d do the same for me.”

But that’s not always true.

I bend over backwards,

stretch myself thin,

go the extra mile—

because that's how I show love, how I show up.

Because that’s who I am.

But not everyone thinks that way.

Some won’t even take a step for you,

while you're out here moving mountains just to make them smile.

And that realization stings.

It’s exhausting to keep giving to people who wouldn’t do the bare minimum for you.

To carry weight for others who never ask how you’re doing.

But I’m learning.

Learning that I can’t expect me from everyone.

Learning that my love, my effort, my energy—it’s valuable.

And it should be given to those who understand its worth.

Boundaries are not bitterness.

Pulling back isn’t being cold.

It’s protection. It’s self-respect.

I’ll still be me—

still kind, still thoughtful, still full of heart—

but I won’t keep setting myself on fire to keep people warm

who wouldn’t even pass me the match.