It might sound pretty cliche by now, but actions really do speak louder than words. Actions, not words, reveal a person's true intentions. If one's actions don't align with their words, it's pretty obvious they're being dishonest. If anything, our actions should back up whatever comes out of our mouths.
So when people say they'll call or visit you, but you're left waiting weeks -- if not months -- for them to reach out to you, it's safe to say they never intended to establish contact in the first place.
Some people think they're doing us a favor by telling us things we'd like to hear, even if they might not be entirely honest. Reality check: untruths, half-truths and white lies are all variants of dishonesty, even if such individuals say they're doing it to spare our feelings.
Most people would prefer that others (1) be direct and say they don't care, or (2) simply walk out of their lives rather than pretend they do care and have nothing to show for it.
I'm not saying that there aren't well-meaning people who genuinely aim to carve us into their schedule, but the fact of the matter is that we make time for the things and people we value. After a while, seemingly valid reasons sound more like excuses.
If you're the only one calling, texting, and proposing outings, you will eventually feel as though the relationship hinges on your efforts alone. Sooner or later, you're bound to get tired and move on to others who actually reciprocate the time and energy you're investing, and rightfully so.
Perhaps they have ulterior motives for not wanting to end the relationship indefinitely (e.g., you always babysit their kids while they're out of town or provide them with relationship or career advice). But if they only remember we exist when it's convenient for them, they're simply not worth our time.
Isn't it funny how some people dislike it when you appear indifferent toward them, but have no qualms about seeming uncaring toward you? They've yet to learn that you ought to treat others as you expect to be treated.
When people say you mean a lot to them and yet they fail to show it through their deeds, it may very well be that they're taking advantage of you. They know they can fall back on you to carry the relationship. But you should never settle for a one-sided relationship where you're doing all the work.
Move on to those who care about you enough to pull their own weight. You deserve better.
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