“If you weren’t there for me in my darkest hours, don’t expect a place in my brightest moments.” – Joshua L Mullins

Life has a way of showing us who truly cares. When the storms roll in, the people who stand by us are the ones who matter most. They’re the ones who give us strength when we have none left, who hold us up when we can’t stand on our own. But what about those who vanish when things get tough, only to reappear when the sun starts shining again?

We’ve all had moments where we felt abandoned by those we thought would be there for us. It’s a painful realization, but it’s also a lesson in resilience and self-worth. When you’re struggling, and the world seems to be against you, the people who stick around are the ones who deserve to share in your success.

Imagine being at your lowest point, feeling isolated and hopeless. You reach out for help, but your calls go unanswered. The silence is deafening, and you’re left to pick up the pieces on your own. It’s in these moments that you discover your inner strength, but you also learn who your true friends are. The ones who stay with you through thick and thin, they are your real support system.

Then, as life often does, things begin to turn around. You start to find your footing, and success slowly but surely comes your way. Suddenly, those who were nowhere to be found during your hardships are back, eager to share in your newfound glory. They offer smiles and congratulations, expecting to bask in the glow of your achievements.

But here’s the thing: if they couldn’t handle your worst, they don’t deserve your best. Those who abandoned you in your time of need have no right to your joy. It’s not about holding grudges; it’s about recognizing your worth and honoring the people who truly care about you. They are the ones who deserve to stand by your side as you celebrate your victories.

We must cherish the friends who stayed, the ones who saw us through our darkest days. They are the ones who held us up when we were about to fall, who listened when we needed to talk, and who offered their shoulder when we needed to cry. These friends are priceless, and they deserve to share in every success we achieve.

To the fair-weather friends, this is a message: If you weren’t there for me in my darkest hours, don’t expect a place in my brightest moments. It’s not about being bitter or unforgiving; it’s about setting boundaries and protecting your well-being. Surround yourself with people who genuinely care for you, who support you unconditionally, and who are there for you through thick and thin.

Life is too short to waste on people who only want to be part of your success without being part of your struggle. Your journey, with all its ups and downs, has made you who you are. Celebrate it with those who have been there every step of the way. They’ve earned their place in your life, and together, you can enjoy the bright moments that come after the storm.

Remember, you deserve to be surrounded by love, loyalty, and genuine friendship. Embrace those who have proven themselves worthy, and let go of those who haven’t. Your brightest moments are meant to be shared with the people who truly care.

—Joshua L Mullins