By Dawn Onley

Do you know people who bring their own cloud with them wherever they go? It could be 90 degrees and sunny outside, then you see them coming, and you know the storm is sure to follow. And you left your umbrella at home.

Do you know people who play the victim with such intensity and at every turn, that they are no longer playing, they officially are the victim of their own self-sabotage?

Do you know people who can’t be happy for other people because they are unhappy with themselves?

Do you know people who are always battling with someone, although their biggest battle is within?

Do you know these people?

Love them with every ounce of your being. Let them know the great things you believe they are capable of achieving. Encourage them. Pray for them. Talk honestly, and tell them how you feel.

But, if things don’t improve, put a distance to the relationship.

This is not to be mean. This is not to be empathetic. This is not to be supportive. This is about keeping your sanity and maintaining your focus.

Because the sad reality is, people like this can drain your energy over time. They can drag you down the same dark, empty road that they are on. They can make you doubt your dreams. They can even keep you from fulfilling your purpose and becoming your best self.

If you let them.

Don’t.

Cuddle your joy like you would a newborn baby. Guard your time and their access to you like you would protect your life savings. Never stop hoping for their breakthrough, but until then, resolve to love them at a distance.

This is not selfish. This is self-preservation.