Give joy by asking for help.

A few weeks back I had an experience which left me feeling elated. 

I don’t remember the gentleman’s name, and I feel really sad about it, as he had a profound effect on me. 

When I had helped he bowed and thanked me in his native way. I was so honoured and touched by his expression of gratitude that I became choked up. 

A few minutes later the gentleman found me at the computer checking out books with my children. Again, he thanked me, this time shaking my hand and introducing himself by name. I reciprocated with my name. 

I was humbled. Being able to help this person was so important to him that he felt the need to thank me twice. 

You can’t underestimate the power and importance of helping someone. 

I felt that what I had been able to do for this person was so simple and such a small act and I didn’t realise how much it could be appreciated. Other people had evidently been unable to help but I didn’t think I was really offering much. All I did was read and support him in following instructions on a computer and perhaps help him understand how to use technology to complete his citizenship application.

Sometimes I guess I underestimate the magnitude of what I can do or the impact that even what I consider simple acts, application of skills or knowledge can have on someone in need.

I’m sure there are fables and anecdotes of people in desperate need of the simplest things valuing them greatly in certain circumstances. The value of these simple acts, our limited knowledge and basic skills can vary greatly according to the situation, circumstance or environment. 

If what you have is not valued or appreciated where, when or by those to whom you offer it, then you have not found the correct audience. Move on. 

The point I wanted to make when I wrote the title for this post was that it is important to give other people the chance to feel the joy and elation that I received from helping this gentleman. When we struggle on alone, too proud to ask or too fearful of an imagined response we deny other people the opportunity of sharing their knowledge or skills in a way which could bring them much joy, purpose and fulfilment. Maybe by asking someone for help it could aid them in identifying their strengths and lead them on to a complete and rewarding career or life. 

Even the most helpless person in the world is blessed to have the purpose of giving joy to all those who can offer them help!

Don’t be so selfish as to struggle on without asking for help.