It is a slow recovery, but I am beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, the journey has opened my eyes to things I have long taken for granted. This has caused me to think about those who have challenges to deal with every single day, for which the shining light at the end of their tunnel only shows a continuum of more of the same and a society that is ignorant of how challenging their life really is.
If I want to be out the door at a certain time, I need to start well in advance to make that deadline. Everything is an ordeal, from washing my hair to dressing, from drying my hair to brushing my teeth left handed! Grocery shopping is set up for physically able people. How do you get things off the top shelves if you cannot reach? Ever think about that? Me neither until recently. Let me tell you, it sure as hell is not easy. Moreover, it is humiliating to ask for help, how much nicer to have someone notice and offer. It amazes me how most people just do not “see” those around them. I can assure you I will be more aware of my surroundings in the future and offer assistance whenever I can!
If I find myself challenged with my minute issue how much more must it be for those who have REAL physical limitations. I am embarrassed to admit that this has never crossed my mind. I have found a new respect, Gentle Readers, for those who have challenges. I think it is sad that it took me 47 years to find it.
So, here is my challenge to all of you out there reading this, determine in your days going forward to be aware of those around you. Look for opportunities to help others. Actually think about the abundance of blessings that you have overflowing your life and look for ways to share them with the world around you. If you already do this, I commend you and challenge you to stretch yourself finding ways to do more.
What a grand and glorious world this would be were it filled with people looking for ways to help each other. Go out to your corner of the world and spread some glory; who knows, it could be contagious!
In addition, as always – have an awesome day.
This is something I do on a daily basis. Even when we dont have a lot to give or do I just offer. My neighbors benefit from this. And I love helping the elder when I am in the store. Or sometimes it is just stopping and talking to someone for a minute when they look sad. Makes their day brighter!
I went through a divorce with one of the reasons being I didn’t see something that needed to be done. I wish people would realize that asking for help when it is truly needed shouldn’t be humiliating. I am more than happy to help anyone that needs to be helped if they take 2 seconds to say “Please Help” I don’t like it being My Fault for not noticing. Nothing personal Kat. Just venting a little.
I truly believe there is a reason for everything in life, including suffering. Kat, it is obvious that you are making something positive and glorious out of a situation that hurts like hell. You’ve had other hurts in life, too, and you have inspired us all by your responses. Stay you. We need to read your uplifting comments.
Thanks for the reminder, Kat. 🙂 Although I’ve had a heightened awareness in the past of others’ needs, it is, unfortunately, fast to fade. Every one of us faces different challenges and it usually just takes a second to notice or ask when assistance would be helpful. None of us has a crystal ball or is a mind reader. Spreading the glory is a most excellent plan!!!
A friend of mine who has serious health issues has recently started getting her dogs certified for pet therapy by volunteering with them at a nursing home. She says, “It’s amazing, isn’t it, how good helping someone makes you feel?” I said, “Absolutely!” 🙂
Kat… you’re an inspiration. I am going to make more of an effort to really SEE those around me in public and help more where I can.
I have been trying to live mindfully and PAY ATTENTION, particularly to the people around me, for years. It makes an enormous difference in my life and probably in the lives of the people around me. I’ve read a number of blogs recently on this same subject, and I think it means that as a species, we are beginning the next stage of evolution. I sure hope so. We’re the thin end of the wedge. Thanks for writing about it; I don’t think there’s anything much more important in the world.
I can’t reach the top shelf period. Too friggin short. I agree with you on people being so blind to the challenges facing the others around them. I’ve gotten 2 major surgeries and this latest injury all involving my arms or hands. It’s quite ridiculous how people just don’t see that somebody needs help.
I deem myself fortunate. In the many roles I have held in my life I have met these crises often. It has always been the motivation to utilise my skills and drive to try and make a difference.
If each day we help someone reach the shelf, cross the road or whatever then we must always try. One person can make a difference on a small scale. If we all carried that care, that empathy then imagine what we all could do.
In saying that we must also care for self, that is not selfish it is just so important because if we lose that then what have we gained if we can no longer make that difference. Sad part is I am only learning that now.
Something I have always been aware of is people who may find it a challenge to do something. If I see someone contemplating something up higher than it looks like they can reach, I offer assistance. Many, though, take offense if you *offer* help when they do not need it necessarily. Instead, I smile and say “Hello” to people. It opens the doors of communications and allows them an avenue if *they* want to ask *me* for help.
**hugs**
Excellent challenge! I’m glad you’re feeling better. I will try to make a much bigger effort to keep my eyes open and help those around me!
XOXOXO
Wonderful post and challenge! I shall redouble my efforts based on your inspiration. This post was a fabulous way to close out what has already been a great day, thank you!
Sometimes I can get too self-focused and I forget that I’m not the only one in the world with problems or issues. What a great thing it is to help someone in need, especially when they do not expect it. Thanks for reminding me. 🙂
I try to help when I can but have been chewed out several times for offering to help someone who looked like they could use it, only to be told “I’m not______” (insert whatever case-old, invalid, etc. ) so am a bit reluctant now. I know what you mean tho about becoming aware of what we take for granted every day. Sad we don’t realise it much sooner in life.
Glad to see you’re coming along tho!