Lean on me when you’re not strong

THE plaster had changed colour three times during the seven weeks of healing. Broken bones held together with rods of iron were now cradled in a new life, spring like green. “You’ll be glad to be rid of that” I chirped to my friend.

“That’s an understatement” came the quick retort.

She continued to confide that she’d be losing a friend for in its multi-coloured existence the plaster encasement had spoken to her.

This was not what I was expecting! She continued to share that over the weeks she’d been pretty much immobilised, in pain, felt vulnerable and isolated.

I suspect most of us have been there. Through the cast she had been compelled to think about asking for help.

We began to muse how difficult it can be to do just that. Ask for help.

The trouble is that we allow pride to get in the way as we think about ‘phoning a friend’. Do you recognise the ‘I’m sorry to be a nuisance but…’ type of phrase?

Not wanting to intrude on busy lives, afraid of bothering others – all rise up as an excuse as we cloak our own vulnerability.

Yet, in asking others they have an opportunity to serve, to reflect the care and love God has for each one of us.

Jesus asked friends for help, to keep watch with Him in the Garden of

Gethsemane when he was overwhelmed with sorrow.

Jesus prayed for help … it’s OK to ask for help and it’s okay to accept help.