Burden

/ˈbərdn/

• A load, specially a heavy one
• A duty or misfortune that causes hardship, anxiety, or grief; a nuisance

“They shouldered their burdens”

load

weight

strain

you slowing someone down

causing them to drag their feet

deep breaths with every step

encumbrance

duty

trouble

you pulling someone under

causing their lungs to gasp

sinking deeper with every stroke

misfortune

bother

concern

you feeling as if you are a

“have to”

Benefit

Blessing

Peace

you helping someone along

carrying their weight

light laughter with each step

Aid

Contentment

Happiness

you pulling someone up

filling their lungs with oxygen

rising above the worst with every stroke

Calmness

Ease

Encouragement

You feeling as if you are a

“want to”

Too often people feel as if they are a burden on others. When I first began writing this article I was stuck and really couldn’t think of anything to put down; until a friend pointed out a quote to me. It was simple really. “You’re not a Burden. You’re a human.” –Unknown. It got me thinking. There are so many times when I felt as if I was a “have to” not a “want to”. People struggle with feeling wanted in families, friendships, and relationships. Not just wanted but loved and truly needed. We can lose a sense of purpose if no one needs us. So please don’t forget to make those who you sincerely love feel as if they are needed. Show them that they are not a chore, they are not burden, they are not just an act of kindness. But show them that you need them as if your life depends on it, they are a blessing, they are an act of love. Show those that they are a “want to” not a “have to”.