I recently saw and shared the above image on a social media page. I’ve been under the weather and feeling the pull of other’s demands for help. While trying to take care of myself fighting a sinus/bronchitis infection, my usual happy to help disposition, wasn’t feeling it. So, this quote struck a chord.

A comment, actually two comments, on my re-post struck an even louder chord for me. One comment(er) said, “Wow, that’s quite a perspective. Hmmm….” and the other, “Oh WOW, yuck. That statement will make a person think!”. These two comments stayed in my head until I got the message. I know God wanted me to get it.

This is what I learned from this. We shouldn’t be confined to a circle. We shouldn’t view interactions with other people as a cage. We don’t belong in boxes, circles, long lines nor high walls. We all have so many various interactions with people for the appropriate reasons like family, friends, coworkers, clients, and such. None of these define our “circle”.

I now see that if I’m not getting inspired by who I’m interacting with, it’s not their fault. If I’m feeling pressure of their demands, it’s my fault for not setting healthy boundaries for myself. And for always putting those who are takers more then givers, first. If you give, they will take without a second thought. It’s not their fault, it’s who they are.

There are different groups of people that I am in contact with on a regular basis. Most of which I am grateful for. If I’m not feeling inspired, I need to look at myself and make the necessary adjustments. Perhaps, that person or those people are in fact being inspired by me. Perhaps, that’s God’s work for me to do! That message in and of itself, is awe-inspiring to me!

I have a magnificent circle! I love all the people I am surrounded with. Some come in closer while others are at a distance. Whether family, friends, associates, clients or acquaintances, don’t think of being in a circle, leave it open. Grow your possibility to be the inspiration for someone else.

Go be inspired by the people you’re probably inspiring! Enjoy the your journey.