Yes, We Actually Do Owe Each Other Something

In the past few years, our society has concluded that we don’t owe each other anything. Contrary to popular belief, following this conclusion doesn’t make you “cool,” it doesn’t show you have self-respect, and it’s not something to be proud of. In reality, this idea is isolating because it prevents connection. We live in a society where we have agreed to live as a community and provide for each other, whether that be through economic transactions, education, or friendship. Where would we be if we did not think of each other?

We owe each other respect, kindness, and humanity. How can we live in a community where we only look out for ourselves and disregard others? Yes, you should give up your seat for the pregnant lady on the train. Yes, you should apologize for hurting someone's feelings even though you didn’t mean to. No, you should not ghost someone because you don’t owe someone closure. It has gotten to the point where people are confusing healthy boundaries with toxicity by ignoring empathy, accountability, and reciprocity. Relationships and societies function on mutual care, responsibility, and trust.

People often expect more than what they give regarding this idea. “Why do they treat me this way?” “Why does nothing go my way?” When you put yourself in a situation where you refuse to do something that’s kind or the bare minimum for someone, you cannot expect someone to do something for you. There are exceptions, but when people use this saying, they mean trivial things. It takes little to nothing to be kind and to have empathy. Of course, you don’t have to do anything for anyone; it’s not mandatory, but think about the benefits. People’s trust and hope in you increase when you show consideration. As the saying goes, you reap what you sow. When you are considerate of other people, they will usually consider you. 

This is a useless social obligation full of fake niceties, to which I say, look outside yourself. Other people matter, and other people's feelings matter. If you genuinely live life only thinking about yourself, do so, but notice how little others care and do things for you. While I don’t believe that you should do nice things with the expectation of reciprocation, if that’s the only way I can get you to be kind to others, so be it. 

Overall, you owe people something to benefit others, yourself, and society. We live in a community based on providing for others, which benefits oneself. Be part of that community. It is fulfilling to be kind.