DISQUS

I absolutely Loved the piano music. Makes me want to practice even more :-)

Being generous and helpful is who you are. Unfortunately there are those who will take advantage of that. Being known for a kind, compassionate, and understanding heart is a great thing, and it's something that attracts both good and bad people. The moment you become cynical or hard-hearted, even the good people will see you differently. They'll say things like, "wow he used to be so ______.", and while they may have a level of understanding as to why you've become jaded, they'll always miss the person they "used to" know. To me, you're a guy that close friends could depend on for support in any fashion - if you lose that, it'll be a lonely road (from experience). And while supporters would understand your change in anthropological policy, it's still contrary to your spirit. You have a spirit most people should strive for, but that's not our world.

In the future, if you want to cut down on the charity, just let the person know that your plate is too full to do that thing that they're asking for. A friend might then ask you if there is anything they could do to lessen your burden (provided it's not something so technical that their asking would just be seen as "it's the thought that counts" sort of gesture). Doing so much for people that it jeopardizes your ability to stay healthy/get rest/stay insane is no help to anyone but the selfish who know they can depend on Chuck to bend over backwards for them with little to no appreciation on their part.