I know I might come off as a snob, but I find it easy to build relationships with people. I'm real, you're real, let's be friends. Easy as that. I can jive with just about anyone because I don't judge people, with or without hearsay. I was not always like that, honestly. But I've always had it in me to be compassionate towards others, so learning how to see the best in other people was not much of a struggle.

Besides, when I really let people in my life (which has always been a rare occasion), the walls come down and my innermost self is revealed. I give as much as I can to my friends. And I like giving. I love giving and expecting nothing in return. Then I begin to trust (which is the toughest stage for me) and the next thing you know you get me: raw, real, pure, smiles, tears, laughter, emo, crazy. I know I'm not the greatest friend in the world, but I know I'm a good friend. 

Which is why it literally pains me when a friend I've invested my time, energy, and emotions in ends up betraying me. (Or screwing me over in one way or another.) Come to think of it, only four people (or three) have hurt me this way. (The others, which were also very few, really, I've just had a fallout with.) But as they say, let each person and experience be a lesson. It's tough, but I always come out better and stronger.

I love people.

I'm easy to get along with despite being incredulously maarte and (sorta) finicky once in a while. (Most of the time I act like a brat for laughs, really.) But anyway, that's just how I am.

I love people.

I realize I have been becoming more sociable these past few weeks. I know I usually carry on conversations with strangers (salespeople, mostly), but I've been extra friendly recently. Statistics show that people who trust more have a more positive disposition in life. (How I wish I could remember the title of that research!) It's true. When I talk to strangers (and not pervs), I walk away with an even bigger smile on my face.

I love people.

So much so that when one seems favorable, I automatically become extra nice to that person. (I don't know why I'm so nice. I immediately feel guilty when I think I've been unkind to a person, in thoughts and actions. Richie says I should toughen up a bit and be a little meaner and less guilty. Le sigh.) I'm nice and if I like you enough, I will spoil you like we've been best friends since forever.

I love people.

But I wish other people, the onlookers, especially, do not automatically presume that I'm an attention whore or that I'm trying to get this or that person on my good side because I want something in return. (Why is there always a negative connotation for every kind action towards another? My faith in humanity continues to dwindle.)

I love people.

But I wish they didn't take me for granted.

I love people.

That even when I am taken for granted, I am quick to forgive and still see and focus on the good in you.

I love people.

Because God loved me first. And He wants me to share that love with everyone I encounter because He loves me in the most abundant of ways. And hey, it's always fun to share your blessings. ;)