I am and have always been a giver. I used to call myself a people-pleaser, but that doesn’t feel quite right because it implies that the things I do are entirely to make others happy, when for many, taking is the status quo. Yet, I still give happily.
Giving is a double-edged sword. On the one side, the giver knows that their blood, sweat, and tears make for stronger bonds and a deeper sense of community. The other side of this is the exhaustion that follows. So, what does a giver do when there is nothing left to give? Ideally, we restore. This looks different for each person, each time. It may come in the form of sleep or solitude or even low-pressure comradery.
But what of the times that we are still needed? What of the times where we have nothing left?
Many of us feel the need then to dig deep, to give up part of ourselves to help others and screw the consequences. And when you will yourself to give beyond your capacity, there are always consequences.
This is how I’ve managed to have mono five times.
Stay tuned for more “Behind the Poem” entries throughout the month of April, and if you want a sneak peek at tomorrow’s poem, check my Patreon. (It’s free!)
Happy reading,
Sibyl