Asking for Help

Asking for help tends to go against our human nature. But weren't we made for relationships? Why, then, do we feel compelled to have a myriad of relationships in which we would willingly offer assistance, yet we shrink back in silent stubbornness when we require assistance? Why do we feel like asking for help is a sign of weakness?

And when did it become such a bad thing? I know my little boy willingly asks for help without hesitation a million times a day! And he asks with a smile on his face. He doesn't apologize for asking or make excuses as to why he really doesn't "need" it but it would be better for me to help. He needs help getting food and drink. He needs help staying clean and getting dressed. He wants to hold my hand when he walks up or down steps. He is getting to be more independent every day. But he still asks for help constantly. And I love it. I don't get exasperated or put out when he needs anything.

Asking for help does not indicate weakness, incompetency, ineptness, or stupidity. Whether it's needing an ear to bend, wanting an extra set of hands in the yard work, needing a meal when you're under the weather, or something more, there should be no shame in asking for help. Needing to pick someone's brain to sort out your own thoughts doesn't mean you're incapable of rational thought. Asking for assistance with a child who's not yet talking doesn't make me a bad or incompetent parent.

Look at heads of state, for example. They're never asked to know absolutely everything. They're not expected to make every decision by themselves. We wouldn't want them to! Rather, they surround themselves with people who have strengths the head of state does not. There's accountability in relationships. There's comfort in not having to know and be and do everything.

There's a blessing that comes with offering and extending assistance to our fellow man. When we refuse offered assistance or are too stubborn to ask when we need it, we deny others their blessings. When you think of it like that, by asking for help, you are offering others an opportunity to be blessed and bless you. It's truly a win-win.

So when you need help, be it big or little, ask. We were designed, created, made for relationships. Be someone who asks. Be someone who can be asked. Be vulnerable. Be approachable. Be in relationships. It makes you, in my opinion, a stronger and better person.