One Step too Far

Here is the line_____ Cross it if you dare
You`ve tested and plotted to see if I care
Will my reaction be something you`ve planned
I may say nothing but do not misunderstand
My silence is not permission to take what is not yours
There are limitations to that hurt I`ll endure

You may fool some with those manipulating lies
But I know the truth behind those dead eyes
I can cut you from my life make no mistake
I`ll replace love once lost with vile hate
It will take time to remove the stains you leave
Hate is a deadly sin, and my soul begs for reprieve

The hurt in my heart, to you I will not show
Unless you`re truly sorry, and this too I will know
Here_____ is the line, let`s see how you fare
When you`re in need and I couldn`t care
So, the next time we encounter, I hope you will see
Not those things you need or want, but hopefully me 

---

This poem, more of a prose in my mind, was written at the same time as “Grievance”. It was at a time when I knew that the personality at hand was doing nothing to help themselves after being helped time and time again. Then that same personality had the nerve to call me selfish and act as if my careful frugality that kept me and my family afloat was an extension for them to exploit.

I believe in helping others, yet I will not allow myself to be used as a bank account because another chooses not to handle their affairs correctly. We all fall down on our luck and could use a helping hand and understanding. I will not however be a party in enabling another to constantly and consistently abandon their responsibility. That is, in my opinion, the time to hold someone accountable for themselves.

Do you have difficulties drawing the line between helping or enabling? Have you fought this internal dialogue like me? Have you felt that your kindness was exploited for somebody else’s lack of accountability?