Two weeks ago, I was invited to a friend’s baby shower.

I was so excited and wanted to help make it special,

so I volunteered to cook for 50 people.

I spent the entire day before the event preparing food — chopping, cooking, baking — all while imagining how fun it would be to celebrate this milestone with my friend.

Late that evening, just as I was finishing up,

I received a message from her.

She explained that she had to uninvite me because there wasn’t enough space at the venue

but added that she still wanted me to drop off the food.

I was shocked and hurt.

I had spent so much time, energy,

and money making sure everything was perfect, only to be told I couldn’t attend.

I decided to calmly reply, thanking her for the invite and letting her know I wouldn’t be able to deliver the food either,

as plans had changed on my end.

The next day,

I heard through mutual friends that the shower didn’t go as smoothly as planned because they didn’t have enough food for everyone.

It was disappointing to see my kindness taken for granted,

but it was also a valuable lesson:

sometimes, it’s okay to set boundaries and say no when others don’t appreciate your efforts.

Looking back, I don’t hold a grudge,

but I’ve realized how important it is to surround myself with people who value and respect my time.

True friends will always appreciate the love and care you put into helping them,

and those are the relationships worth holding on to.