Navigating the Wild World of Relationships Without Losing Your Sanity

In the hustle and bustle of life, we often find ourselves caught up in a complex web of relationships, friendships, and societal pressures. As I navigate my own journey, I’ve come to a surprising conclusion: I don’t really enjoy having friends. Now, before you jump to conclusions, let me explain—I truly appreciate people. I value the warmth of human connection, the loyalty, and the compromises that come with it. However, when I reflect on it, I realize that these relationships don’t necessarily bring me joy. Instead, they seem to fulfill a societal norm that I’ve unconsciously followed for too long.

The friends I do have are as varied as a colorful quilt, each contributing their own unique shades and designs to my life. I respect them for who they are, rather than how closely they align with my own beliefs or lifestyle. Their passions, their loves, their very essence—these are what I hold dear. I don’t feel the need to judge how they choose to live, nor do I want to change them. My only hope is for them to be safe, true to themselves, and to discover their own purpose in life. Above all, I want them to have faith in themselves.

When people start relying on you in their lives, things can get complicated. Possessiveness and jealousy can emerge, and when their trust in life begins to fade, I often feel lost. I can’t be the support they need while I’m still trying to find my own way. It’s tough to follow your heart when others are concerned for you, and it becomes even more challenging when they start pushing their views on how you should live. At this stage, the love I offer isn’t returned in the same way, and I feel a twinge of guilt because I don’t depend on them as they do on me. It seems like we’re in each other’s lives for different purposes, and I can’t meet their needs just by wanting them in my life. My presence is rooted in love, plain and simple.

Some may see me as avoidant or detached, and while I don’t particularly embrace these labels, “detached” resonates with me more. It’s not that I don’t care about my friends; I just don’t think I should control any part of their lives. My hands aren’t large enough to grasp the world; they can only hold myself and, occasionally, if the moment is right, support others. I give freely and generously when things are good, expecting nothing in return. I’ve learned the hard way that I can’t hold everything, and I’ve had friends who thought my hands were theirs to use. I’ve often ignored my inner voice telling me it doesn’t have to be this way, that I don’t lack anything, and that these people don’t fill a void in my life.

I feel content with who I am and don’t think I’m missing anything. As a human, I know that anything I don’t understand now will come to me in time if it’s meant to be. My emotions can sometimes feel intense, and my thoughts can turn time into a foe. My beliefs and opinions can lift me high, but when morning comes, I occasionally find myself questioning them. I share these reflections with those close to me, not seeking their approval or guidance, but simply for the comfort of having someone present without any demands. They appreciate me for my true self, not for any preconceived notions or what they might gain from our connection.

I’m not looking for friends who idolize me; I’m already busy being my own biggest fan. I don’t want friends who think I’ll magically improve their lives because that’s not my role. Please don’t recruit me for a position I never sought. My ego deserves to be celebrated, not confined. I’m here to listen if you reach out, to be truthful with you, and to honor and cherish you just as you are. I hope you can be your authentic self without feeling pressured by me to change. I wish the same in return, but if that’s not possible, I’d prefer to love you from a distance.

Life can sometimes feel like it’s conspiring against me, especially when others perceive my actions as betrayal. Yet, I find comfort in accepting whatever part I’m meant to play. My existence is more expansive than my connections with others, and I will continue to pray for the love I give to be reciprocated. I will hold onto my expectations of what I deserve and remain committed to becoming the person I aspire to be.

I’m not interested in being anyone’s cheerleader or therapist—if you need that, it should come with a fee. I’m not your parent or your closest friend, although I’m open to those titles. I envision a friend as someone who can be authentic on their own, without relying on shared vulnerabilities to define the bond. A true friend understands that the future is uncertain and won’t use me as a benchmark. They won’t seek me out simply because they feel lonely.

Ultimately, my life’s journey has shown me the significance of solitude and the need to reshape my understanding of friendship. It’s about cultivating inner peace and cherishing the love I offer, even if it doesn’t always come back to me in the way I hope. And that’s perfectly fine.

4 responses to “Friendship: It’s Not Me, It’s Definitely You”

  1. Perhaps you are of a different world and part of you is being pulled into this one…or maybe you just stumbled into this one..

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  2. I think as we get older the way we spend time with our friends and what we need changes, due to things happening in my life and theirs. I have friends but I am also happy doing things alone or with my dog.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I completely understand. As life changes, so do our friendships and how we spend time. It’s awesome that you enjoy both your friends and your own company. Do you have any favorite solo activities or things you do with your dog?

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