Reciprocity

As the famous Lauren Hill sings “Tell me, who I have to be to get some reciprocity”. The question I‘m asking myself, “Is reciprocity earned or automatically given?”

All of our connections thrive when each person gives of themselves selfishly to others. In many ways we are meant to generously give our love and share our talents with the world. That energy exchange creates happiness within and out side of ourselves. Of course its never this black and white, but this is the mentality I strive to maintain.

I like to think of reciprocity as an organic behavior. I do for you out of the goodness of my heart and you do for me out of the goodness of yours. It’s really easy to fall into the mindset of doing for another simply because you expect them to do for you when its your turn. Sometimes we can feel obligated or pressured to reciprocate simply because someone did something nice for us.

Of course reciprocity is necessary but so is being selfless without waiting for an even exchange or one at all. There were countless times I was not able to return the favor whether that was mentally, emotionally, financially, or spiritually. Does that make me selfish? No, it makes me human. I’ve learned to extend grace in experiences like this and I hope that you will do the same.