Asking
Only logged in members can reply and interact with the post.
Join SimilarWorlds for FREE »

"My brother's keeper" or "He's not heavy. He's my brother"

Both phrases embody the idea that love, empathy and duty make caring for others effortless, and a shared theme of compassion and familial/human responsibility.

However, I feel like it is not as easy or effortless as it sounds. Like it's easier said than done. I know people and I know of people who take on the responsibility of caring for others or love ones and it is very hard and stressful. It depends on the circumstances but in some cases I feel like you shouldn't have to take on that responsibility;ty when the person clearly doesn't want your help and is only using you. But, in other situations were the person you are helping clearly can not help themselves, but they would if they could, so you have to have discernment here.
This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »
SunshineGirl · 36-40, F
I never interpreted those phrases as meaning that caring for a loved one is effortless. I take them as meaning we set conventional notions of effort/reward to one side when we take on those responsibilities. We have no expectation of reciprocation. Our reward lies in being of service to a person we love unconditionally.