As we continue to grow new roles are added to our being, the role of a parent, aunt, grandmother, partner, friend, a caregiver. There comes a time when we will be the comfort to our healing mother, or the person the boss needs to vent to, or the strength to our sick guardian.
These transitions in relationships are a part of life. No relationship ought to be a certain way. There will come a time when we have to be strong for those who have been strong for us, thus far. Let’s not forget our self-care determines the well-being of our relationships. If we aren't good to ourselves, then what good are we to anybody else we love. When we can't find the balance in the relationships we establish with the time we devote to ourselves, we aren't able to exert the energy to be supportive of anyone else.
When someone shares with you the circumstances that are causing them to vent, it's important to not see that moment as a waste of your time, or just negative energy being thrown onto you. Most of the time, there's a legitimate reason why that person trusts in you to confide in.
There is a sense of gratitude that comes with helping someone else.