There is a group of friends that could use some help. I can see that help is within their grasp. I have accessed the help and know it works. Yet I also know that the only way it will be helpful is if they decide to reach for it themselves. I cannot reach for them. I cannot tell them to reach for it. Can I give them hints? Yes. Are suggestions appropriate? Again, yes. I have even gone to the edge by offering to walk with them.
As of today’s dawn, the help goes untouched.
Even as I make sure it is within their vision and reach, I find myself reflecting. Am I that different in other areas of my life? Have I been blind to sources of help in the past? Are there sources that I continue to ignore?
It is a dark question to wrestle with. In my heart I know that the answer is yes. It is more than a simple yes; it is a resounding yes on multiple levels. I also know that asking for and accepting help is one of the most difficult things that we can do. On one level I find is perplexing. The old Client Eastwood character expression of that “every man should know his limitations” echoes. Everyone has limits, even our heroes. Everyone has points where ability, skill, and endurance come to an end. Help and being human go hand in hand. Yet, there is something inherently difficult in admitting, asking, and accepting help. I am not immune to this mystery. I easily slip into a mode of trying to do things on my own.
I behave as if I am alone. I act as if there is no individual willing or able to help. I assume that only I can do certain things. Candidly, I seem unwilling and unable to see the evidence of my limitations.
David’s words echo what I can see in the mirror; “God’s Word warns us of danger and directs us to hidden treasure.” (Psalm 19.11) Help is always within my grasp.
