“They used you…”

No. They received genuine love and care from me, and they played themselves.

I saw a similar quote on a reel posted by J-Okayyyy on Instagram. It took me a couple of reads to really sink in, but when it did? It cracked something wide open. Absolute game-changer for the whole “poor me” narrative I sometimes fall into.

To all the people who came and went in my life, the ones who took and took and then vanished… and to the ones who basked in my love only to turn around and treat me like garbage—you all played yourselves.

Because here’s the truth: I’m a damn good person. I love hard, I care big, and I will move mountains for the people I consider mine. I’ve given money. I’ve given rides without ever asking for gas. I’ve fed people, clothed people, let them crash on my couch—or in my bed. I’ve vouched for people when they needed a reference for a job or a home. I’ve helped with pets, kids, moving, you name it. If I love you, I show up.

So was I a victim? No. Not even close. I did what felt right. I gave because it’s who I am, and because making someone’s world a little easier actually brings me joy. But the ones who took without appreciation, who hurt me, who thought they were “using” me? They’re the ones who lost.

Because if they had treated me with the same loyalty and care I offered them, they’d still have me in their corner. They would’ve had a lifelong friend—steady, loving, generous, and real.

They didn’t use me. They just threw away something rare. And that loss is entirely theirs.