A Sucker Gets Licked..

There have been so many times in my young adulthood in which I felt taken advantage of, or felt that my "kindness was mistaken for weakness." In all aspects of my life, I was considered the "yes" girl. "Go to Gwen," they would say, "she'll do it," "she'll help" or "she knows."In this life we all take turns in the roles of "givers" and "takers." Neither role should be preferred, or considered better than the other,because we must assume those positions when we need them most. It seems that when it came to me, I always ended up in a position, where I was left feeling depleted and unsatisfied. Of course I would end up running to my dad, wanting him to right all the wrongs, and "take out all the bad guys," but instead he would simply reply.."A sucker gets licked baby, and when you see a sucker, you should lick it too." What???? I thought? This is know time to make reference to candy, and there is nothing remotely sweet about this situation. But then I had to think. Have I actually been a "sucker?" When you think of a sucker, words like "weak,"vulnerable," a "victim." Sensing my agitation with his response, he than began to explain further. "It's human nature for us all to be a little selfish. Life is rough for most people, so they take advantage of people or opportunities whenever they can. You can't expect people to consider your well being upon meeting you. You cant even expect them to care after they know you. All you can do is be smart about your choices, and be assertive. Treat people with a courtesy only, and nothing beyond that. You cant blame people for wanting more for them selves, you just have to make sure it's not at your expense, thus you will be the "sucker" getting licked. Control what you can control in life, and everything will be fine." For the rest of the day,visions of suckers danced around in my head. I guess he's right, I thought to myself. I will be more aware, and just make sure I take as much as I give. This balance will help me to feel better over all.