There are certain individuals you should not allow to make you feel guilty.
These people may believe that you are foolish for your actions or responses. Consider the following scenarios:
- Flamboyant Friends and Relatives: Do you know people who lead extravagant lifestyles, flaunt expensive clothes, and hold grand religious titles but come to you when they need financial support?
- Unreliable Supporters: Are there individuals who are never available to help you but remember you only when they need money?
- Deceptive Individuals: Do you have someone in your life who has outsmarted you repeatedly, yet believes you don’t realize their slippery nature?
- Social Climbers: Do you know people who chase after influential figures but turn to you in their moments of helplessness?
- Non-Contributors: Are there individuals who refuse to make the sacrifices you have, yet expect you to sponsor their emergencies?
- Ungrateful Borrowers: Do you encounter people who borrow from you and act as if they never did?
- Last-Minute Requesters: Do you have acquaintances who frequently ask for money in a hurry but only remember to repay when reminded?
- Advice Rejectors: Do you know individuals who disregard your counsel but expect you to handle their complicated issues?
- Entitlement Seekers: Are there those who want to enjoy the benefits of your hard work without contributing anything themselves?
- Respect Disparity: Do some people use you disrespectfully while treating others with utmost respect?
- Opportunists: Have you experienced individuals who sideline you when they see other potential sources of flattery?
In my experience with itinerant ministry and life in general, I have encountered many such individuals.
They may view you as foolish and themselves as smart.
Be diplomatic with them, but do not allow them to manipulate you.
Improve yourself continuously and avoid letting them find you in the same place as before. Make yourself less accessible, be polite yet firm, and avoid being a tool for their convenience.
Remember, you should not be a broom in their hands; otherwise, you risk being taken advantage of.
I remain your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki. You are my responsibility.
