Ask Baba Yaga: Is It Possible To Be Kind Without Expecting Reciprocation?

Dear Baba Yaga,

People use me for my kindness and then toss me in the wastebasket. It happens often: I open myself up to people, but I always end up feeling hurt. Is it possible to be kind without expecting reciprocation? Can I share kindness without wasting it on the weeds?

BABA YAGA:

Next time, pick up the weed & inspect its microscopic eye. Does it glint desperately, weedly? Does it seem to have any interest in you besides yr holy water? A good plant will reward you with its glory. You must sharpen yr vision, tend to yr garden with a ruthless precision.

Previously: How Can I Stop Craving Male Attention?

Taisia Kitaiskaia is a poet and writer living in Austin. She’s taking questions on behalf of Baba Yaga at askbabayaga [at] gmail.com.

Illustration of Baba Yaga’s hut by Katy Horan.