A few weeks ago, some colleagues of mine were in the critical stages of preparing for a big event.  They needed some resource people to tap in order to complete their preparations.  In the middle of a very busy day, they called me in a panic, asking if I knew people who could do this-or-that.  Because they sounded so desperate, I started shooting off emails to various people, asking if they could help out. Fortunately, they responded and I passed on their names and contact information to this first group of colleagues. 

I asked a couple of times whether the names I gave them helped.  I never received a response.  I didn't hold it against them. I figured they were too busy.

Well, the big event is coming up.  I was able to see the list of participants.  Not a single name I recommended was on it. 

And so now I wonder: Maybe at the time they called they really were at their wits' end.  Maybe they tried to get in touch with the people I recommended but they weren't able to see eye-to-eye. But at the same time I wonder whether it was really necessary for them to bother me with the problem.  Did they already have the solutions and they just needed to vent? If they weren't going to take the suggestions, then maybe I could have been spared the additional stress?

I've worked with these people many times and I have the highest respect for them.  I do not want to think ill of them.  Indeed, they've thrown me a lifeline more than once.  However, I can't help but feel disappointed, annoyed, irritated, and used. 

This too shall pass, though, and all will be well.  I guess I'll just be a little more careful next time.