To all the friends who are only around when THEY need someone:

I have always been the person who attracts people who only want to be around me when they need something. When I need to talk to them, they don't respond.

I have since decided that I have to stop dropping everything to help these people. I will always be there for them and do what I can but I have to focus on myself first. I can't bend over backward to help others.

Here is my analogy: Each person is like a half-empty cup. When you help build someone up, you give them some of your water. If you give someone all your water and get no water back, your cup will become empty. An empty cup symbolizes being out of love for yourself and for others. You can't help or love someone else if you can't help or love yourself. That's what the saying "You can't pour from an empty cup" means.

I really do love you, but I can't be supportive of you if you're gone when I need support. I have to protect my own cup and make sure that I am happy while still trying to help you. I will always be your friend and I will always try to help you, but if you could at least try to give me a little back... I would really appreciate it.

To anyone else who finds themselves in the same position, try to be patient. Most people realize what they're doing. Sometimes, if you draw their attention to it, they have the chance to fix it. If they make no effort to fix it, then it is probably time to cut them out of your life. Your own happiness is more important than making yourself miserable.

Stop trying to pour from an empty cup.