I used to have so many “friends”, in my 20s and early 30s. I never didn’t have someone to hang out with. I never didn’t feel obligated to hang out with someone. Then my controlling ex (pre-ex) controlled them all right out of my life and when I finally extricated myself from that marriage, it was just me and my kids. For a LONG time.

The few people I’m lucky enough to call friend these days all have their own lives, just like I have mine. I have never once felt obligated to any of them, though I am more than happy to show up in whatever capacity they may need at any time. Mostly because I know if they were in a position to ask me to, it would be a genuine need (ride home after surgery comes to mind) and not needing me to complete them or anything. And I know it is the same for them; if I called, they would come. Because I handle my shit.

I did used to be a needy bitch, though. And one who needed other needy bitches. But life is short and it’s only getting shorter. At some point ya gotta cut the fat.