"Don't borrow trouble."
This is a phrase I heard often growing up. This phrased is generally used when talking to someone about worry. "There is no use crying over spilled milk" or "Making something out of nothing" for example, have a similar meaning. They basically say not to fret over something you cannot change, or about something over which you have no power. While it is a normal part of human nature to feel these types of worry and whatnot, I tend to have heard the phrase with a slightly different context.
As a child, all the way until now, I have found myself perpetually drawn to people with heavy burdens. It is as if I am the only one who can see the load they carry, and only I have the power to lighten it. I guess some people would call it overly empathetic, more still would call me overly righteous. No matter the name or phrase you put to it, I have always been one to "Borrow Trouble." I am not the type to sit idly by when I see someone in pain or anger. I may be their best friend, or they might be a complete stranger, but I always feel the need to know whats wrong, and to see if I can fix it. My mother used to get frustrated with me about this. She would (and still does occasionally) think that I invested too much time and effort in the emotions of others and would then be left an empty or emotional wreak afterward. As an outgoing and extroverted person, I find friends easily and everywhere, and as I open the doors of friendship wide, I tend to welcome a world of baggage as well. However, the metaphor is appropriate (and I blame my mother since she raised me). If someone comes walking through my doors and is struggling with the weight of their baggage, I hope I will always be polite and compassionate enough to do my best and help them. I know that it isn't my baggage, it's probably someone who isn't planning on staying, but if they are coming into my place, I am doing to do everything in my power to make their time with me memorable, safe, and happy.
I know I borrow trouble. But I would rather struggle to share the burden of 20, than walk along free and light but alone. I might never see any of these people again, but I feel better just knowing I did something that made a difference to someone. Besides, I've been buried under the weight of the world and was blessed enough to have people willing to come dig me out and help me rebuild. And there is no possible better way to thank them than by giving back in return.
So I encourage you all. Every day, go about your normal life, but keep your eyes open for those who might be struggling with a burden. The girl in the coffee shop, the colleague one office over, the homeless man on the street. See if you can lighten someones load. You may only be able to help a little, some of you maybe a lot. But try. And I promise it will change your life.
