The Only Time:
You contact me is when you need my assistance
You show affection is when you want to sleep with me
You show care is when you want something in return
You listen to me is when you need my advice
You appreciate me is when others are watching
You offer help is when it benefits you
You spend time with me is when you have nothing better to do
You say you're sorry is when you're caught in the act
You make promises is when you're trying to avoid conflict
You smile at me is when you need a favor
You show up is when you have an ulterior motive
You remember my birthday is when you expect a gift in return
You defend me is when it boosts your reputation
You speak kindly is when you want to manipulate me
You praise me is when you want to cover up your faults
You give me attention is when you're trying to distract from your guilt
You act generously is when you want to appear magnanimous
You acknowledge my efforts is when you're trying to take credit
You express concern is when you want to ease your conscience
You ask about my day is when you have nothing else to talk about
It's disheartening when relationships, whether personal or professional, are reduced to a series of transactions, where genuine care and affection are replaced by calculated moves for self-interest. When interactions are guided by hidden agendas rather than authentic connections, they breed mistrust and erode the foundation of any relationship. True relationships should be built on mutual respect, love, and sincerity, where the value of a person isn't measured by their utility, but by their intrinsic worth. The time to reflect and change is now, before these hollow exchanges leave us with nothing but regret and emptiness. Let's strive for connections that are meaningful, where actions stem from the heart and not from selfish desires.
Johnson Babalola, a Canada based lawyer, leadership consultant and corporate emcee, is a public affairs analyst. Follow him for discussions on real life issues that affect us all:
https://substack.com/@johnsonbabalola
https://medium.com/@jblawyer2021
https://www.facebook.com/jbandthings
IG: @jbdlaw/@jbandthings
Website: www.johnsonbabalola.com
You can obtain a copy of his book, REJECTED on Amazon, FriesenPress, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, Apple Books, Nook Store etc.