I like to use the good-fast-cheap paradigm for most people. Typically, if I’m giving you something good & cheap/free, then it won’t be done today. If you want something good & fast, can’t be cheap. I can do fast & cheap, but I typically set expectations of like “Uhhh, I can try for 5 mins but [more important thing I need to do.]”

I agree that being the tech expert isn’t great, but it’s usually simple tasks. Most people have something where they are “the specialty person.” You’re tech, but maybe another friend is crafty, another one is good at fixing stuff, another is artistic. We all have different strengths and weaknesses.

I try to imagine good actions/karma as being passed forward; hopefully when I need help, someone looks out for me.

I agree with the sentiment, but emotional care does take energy. When people are feeling hopeless and powerless, it saps their ability to be compassionate because it takes energy. See Caregiver burnout.