“Every choice you make and everything you do, you’re bound to disappoint somebody. All you can do is make sure you don’t disappoint the wrong person.”

Let’s talk about people we take for granted. Are they usually the ones who’ve been there so consistently for you that there are times you absentmindedly begin taking their kindness and presence for granted?

I’m not a big fan of forwarded quotes via SMS, but when I received the above quote, I felt I had to keep it. I clicked on “Save Message” and it’s been in my phone since. It reminds me of not getting too comfortable with my loved ones and companions to the point of assuming that they’ll just always be there for me.

It is easy to appreciate being cared for. It becomes difficult, however, when the acts of kindness towards you become so consistent that that perhaps they become just a system, a routine for you.

The lunch your household help prepares for you everyday? True, it may be part of her daily job, but it’s what sustains you through the afternoon. So before you go rolling your eyes at her for yet another baon of adobo and rice, how about saying thank you? Or expressing your desire for another kind of snack in a more polite way?

The curfew your parents extend for you every so often? True, you’ve been lucky the past few Friday nights, but don’t think they’ll say “yes” to your request all the time. Don’t throw a fit and be a drama queen when they tell you “no” for the next curfew request. It may not be wise to abuse their kindness.

The little sweet pasalubong your boyfriend brings you everytime you see each other? You may be tempted to go “Chocolates again?!” Ah, count your blessings that you’ve got someone who possesses such thoughtfulness. It may be lacking in the creativity department at times, but if his heart is in the giving, that’s what matters, right?

These are just some examples of the people who would be so easy to take for granted. They could be the ones who understand you best.

Watch your words and actions around your loved ones and companions. While it’s easy to enjoy their love and selflessness, be alert enough to know you’re not taking them for granted with misplaced words and actions. Care enough not to disappoint those who love and trust you, and those who you love and trust as well.