Caring for the Caretaker

Caring for the caretaker was never on their priority list, for they collapse, they splinter, and they dissolve into ashes of self-pity and regret. Yet the caretaker was always there to collect their remnants and bind them all.

Caring for the caretaker never crossed their minds, for how could they when all they could see are their own scars, their own tears, and their own woes? Caring for the caretaker was clearly an impossible task for them all.

But oh the irony, for it was indeed possible. Yet they chose to trample on her boundaries instead. To meddle with her own growth instead. And to let her wither in the process instead. What a cruel world indeed for caretakers. 

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In response to the quote: 

"Some people are as fragile as butterflies and sensitive and it’s your responsibility not to destroy them. Just because you can." —Marisha Pessl, Special Topics in Calamity Physics

While it is true that we should all learn to be kinder with our words and actions to not indirectly hurt others. I think it should be taken in mind, that pain is inevitable and essential to make room for growth. We don't have all the luxury to walk through life without the possibility of sufferings and loss. Even the knowledge that we will go through such isn't a guarantee that we won't get hurt in the process. Yes, being more sensitive and empathic makes a huge difference for the community, but we should not also blind ourselves from the prospect of pain, because IT. WILL. HAPPEN. no matter what preemptive measures you take.

It's also not right to burden others with the "responsibility" to not hurt your feelings. We aren't all born to be perfectly empathic, it's a continuous struggle to remain one; and before you demand others to always consider your feelings, maybe you should reflect first on what you're inadvertently doing to them as well. Because that's you being manipulative. That's you being insensitive. Before you overuse your guilt-trip cards on the table, please bear in mind that we all have the capacity to break. Empathy is not a one-way road; you just might lose someone in the process. Keep in mind to at least take care of the caretaker.