I'm so used to doing tasks on my own until when someone offers to help, I usually say:
"Oh, that's OK! I got this." And then I struggle.
Recently while on Christmas holiday, I checked into my hotel and there was no bellman to help with my bags. I looked at my tons of luggage and then heard a guy seated in the lobby say, "I'll help!"
I refused to go into my default statement: "Oh, that's OK! I got this." Instead I accepted his kindness. I was so happy and thanked him profusely.
As a mostly solo traveler, I often need help putting my carryon in the bin and assisting in a variety of sundry ways.
But a few days ago I had surgery and I was trying to figure out how I'd manage getting to and from the Surgi-Center, picking up groceries and assisting with my first 24 hours.
My sister, who is too far away to help, knows I'm independent but she began naming names of friends and sorority sisters admonishing me to CALL THEM! THEY LOVE YOU!
So, I made a list, which kept getting longer and longer and LONGER!
Suddenly, I had friends who spent the night while nursing me, did my shopping, brought food over, cooked and made sure I was comfortable. One friend offered to fly in.
They lined up to help and I'm humbled and grateful.
I thanked them all profusely and to a person, they said: THAT'S WHAT FRIENDS ARE FOR!
