Being someone’s rock is a really important responsibility. Being there for someone and helping them through the tough parts of their lives is something that is so rewarding. But having that type of responsibility can be emotionally taxing.
It’s difficult to constantly have to stop worrying about yourself to help someone else talk through whatever is going on in their lives. I think that people stop thinking that you are also human with personal battles to fight. When you come off as strong and put together on the outside, people don’t think that you might be absolutely falling apart on the inside. They stop asking whether you’re okay, even if you ask them first. It’s funny though, because you probably don’t really even mind.
If you’re anything like me, you would rather deal with other people’s problems before your own. Helping someone through tough times can be stressful, but it’s worth it when you see that you’ve helped them get to a better place.
For those of you who have your designated rocks, don’t take advantage of them. Make sure that they are okay, too. The wear and tear of constantly hearing someone else’s negative thoughts adds up.
A thank you to the people who are your rocks would go a long way. It’s easy to feel unappreciated and used.
For those who are the rocks to someone else, feel lucky to have someone trust you enough to tell you things that are probably difficult to say.
For those who have others to lean on, realize how lucky you are to have someone who cares enough to always listen no matter what they are doing or what is going on in their own lives.