As a general rule we choose only to associate with those who have something to offer. The perceived value of a relationship is more often what can be taken from it rather than what can be given to it.
We are all looking for things like friendship, love, prestige, recognition, security and peace. We become attached to those who can offer us the most of what it is that we are seeking.
Although we have all heard of the value of giving there are far more takers among us than there are givers. If it were otherwise poverty and prejudice would disappear.
Instead we live in a world that lacks balance; where what we want overshadows what we have and who we are.
The true value of a relationship is how it improves and uplifts the lives of those involved. At the heart of that is the hearts of individuals. Balance is about equality. It’s about making a contribution. It’s about realising that the getting is in the giving and that the giving is done without expectation of reward.
A positive thing we can all do to improve our mental wellbeing is to embrace kindness. Think of others and reach out to them.
Kindness will not always be appreciated and it may not be returned but that will never devalue it.
Gary Bentley Counselling 