I doubt I will hold on to this thought, but I think I am done being so available to other people. I have taken so many calls from people for many years at all hours of the day and night. Granted, they do not call me during the night much if they are just bored. Those calls are when someone is really concerned, but I take them. I have gotten on the phone at two in the morning to try to help a friend get through a moment of pain or frustration. I really don't mind doing it, but I admit that I expect something: reciprocation. I don't feel like I get that.

The most common scenario is that a 'friend' discovers that I will answer the phone regardless of the time. So, they call. I have talked people through so many things, usually centered around bad relationships. I have listened to 'it is not supposed to be this way' so many times, I am ill. I even talked a friend through hallucinations brought on by prescription medicine. Once they get through the situation at hand, they are suddenly unavailable. They no longer have time or the inclination to talk. If they do talk, they are unwilling to listen to what I have going on. Yes, I am selfish. I figure if I do it for someone, they should do it for me.

As a result, I will be trying to cease my availability for discussions, regardless of the topic. Find someone else to talk to. I am not a doormat.

Just a public service announcement to let those who might read this and be on that list of people who like to call when they have a problem that the door is no longer open. Leave a message. Maybe I'll call you back. Don't count on it.
Disgusted, but I will unfortunately get over it most likely...