I used to think of myself as a calm person who avoided trouble at all costs. Nothing was the same after my neighbour Karen started asking for help.
At first, I gladly agreed and drove her daughter Emily to school with my own daughter Sophie. Karen’s requests, on the other hand, became daily habits over time, and I started to feel abused.
When Karen told me one morning that her car was full and couldn’t take Sophie, I knew she was lying. Her reason was silly, since she was driving an SUV with Emily inside. I chose to show Karen what’s wrong.
The next day, I purposely made Sophie and Emily late for school by taking them on a side trip to their favourite doughnut shop. Karen was mad, but I stood my ground and told her she should pay for her own daughter’s transportation.
Karen never asked me to drive Emily again after that. Because she was embarrassed and angry, she avoided me.
I learnt that being a good neighbour doesn’t mean putting your feet up for everyone. You have to stand up for yourself and show other people how important it is to be thankful sometimes.
I no longer feel bad about taking the scenic way that day. It was a small act of disobedience, but it made things more balanced in our neighbourhood. Karen learnt to value how kind I am and follow my rules. I also learnt that putting limits on things can be lovely.
