The Truth About Breast Cancer

Written by Patricia Zimmerman

Empowerment Through Love and Boundaries

You’ve likely heard the saying: “If you give a man a fish, he eats for a day. If you teach a man to fish, he eats for a lifetime.”

The same wisdom applies to our relationships. When we do everything for others, we may believe we are helping—but in truth, we may be robbing them of the opportunity to grow, learn, and develop self-respect. Over-giving or “buying love” often comes from an unconscious desire to be needed or accepted. Yet this creates imbalance. When we take on another’s responsibilities, we become a crutch. They begin to depend on us rather than themselves. Soon resentment may arise—both theirs and ours. They may take our help for granted, and we may feel unappreciated or drained. But we cannot be angry with them, for in truth, we helped create the situation by never setting healthy boundaries.

Boundaries are essential to love. They teach others how to treat us and give space for everyone to grow in strength and wisdom. Without them, love can easily become enabling instead of empowering. When love turns into over-care or control, we lose our balance. True healing begins when we recognize this pattern and choose to change it. Remember—you cannot change anyone else, but you can change yourself. And when you change, your world changes with you.

Healing begins with self-love. Take time for yourself. Create beauty. Breathe deeply. Live fully. Love life.

Blessings to you on your journey.