That Giving Back Trap Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

With all done for others we do,
Less is appreciated.
More done is expected.
Without benefit of choice,
To refuse or excuse.
But left to feel an obligation,
As a promise to not neglect.

And those days,
When we need to focus...
Upon valued rest to get.
We hear words expressed,
About our selfishness.

Then if we prove this untrue...
Rumors begin to spread,
How it is we choose...
To use others to get attention.
With including to mention,
Sensitivities we have...
Are only meant to seek them,
Comforted and pleased.

And when we don't get rest,
Affected is our mental...
And physical health.
To realize very few appear,
Anywhere near.
With offers to assist.
Or make clear,
Their expressions of concern...
Is sincere to believe,
Those words heard.

But those who have travelled,
This road...
To know what occurs,
When feelings of guilt...
Begins its emotional approach.
To surge...
Have learned not to stop,
Moving forward.
To leave behind made to lay,
Their own 'self-serving'...
Earned to deserve tracks.
With it acknowledged as fact...
They will not again,
Be caught up...
In that giving back trap.
Knowing that...
Sacrificing a found happiness,
Is too much of an expense...
To exchange for disrespect.
AND to expect it.