As a very independent woman it took me a long time to reach out and ask for help when I needed it most. I used to think it was a sign of weakness if I couldn't figure something out, accomplish a goal or even move through an emotionally difficult time, all on my own. I believed if I involved another person then I didn't really accomplish anything or I'm actually not as strong as I think I am. Boy am I glad I gave up that belief! And trust me on this one, it is just a belief.
Over the years I have worked with many people who had that same belief. When I shared a certain story with them it always seemed to reach them at a level that immediately shifted their thinking and supported them in the process of being willing to ask for help.
I just came across that story while I was doing a little house cleaning in my office and thought I'd share it with you.
A boy and his father were out walking when they came across a large stone. The boy said to his father, "Do you think if I use all my strength, I can move this rock?" His father answered, "If you use all your strength, I am sure you can do it."
The boy began to push the rock. Exerting himself as much as he could, he pushed until sweat poured off his forehead, but the rock did not budge. Discouraged, the boy told his father, "You were wrong. I can't do it."
The father placed his arm around the boy's shoulder and said, "No, son. I was not wrong. You didn't use all your strength. You didn't ask me for help."
Anonymous
Where are you not using all your strength in your life?
There is nothing wrong with being independent but once it borders to being prideful, it becomes a concern. The Bible warns us in Proverbs 29:23 "A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor." Thanks for your insightful writings and more power!
Posted by: buy fluoxetine | July 30, 2009 at 09:15 PM
Asking for help is one of the hardest things in life to do for some. Thank you for sharing such an insightful story.
Posted by: Feed Your Good Dog | July 30, 2009 at 08:57 PM