Do you find it difficult to ask for help? If so, let me tell you about my friend who does. In recent days she had to go away unexpectedly. But there was a problem! Who would look after her three precious golden retrievers? What to do? At least she was clear on one-point no, they were certainly not going into kennels…
After much soul-searching, there seemed to be only one option; she would take the risk and ask Tom, her next-door neighbour. Now, Tom was frail and elderly, his wife had died recently, his three children were far from home and he had become a recluse.
As luck would have it, she met him at the local store the night before her departure. It was now or never… So she plucked up the courage and made her request. To her astonishment his face lit up – he was privileged to be asked. She was stunned and went away a happy woman.
A new and rich chapter opened in Tom’s life. He walked the dogs three times a day. As they walked, he began to engage with other dog walkers and to renew old acquaintances. As a result, he was invited to renew membership of his golf club, to rejoin his bridge group and to enjoy a pint with his former friends. His joie de vivre was palpable and he exuded peace and happiness. And most importantly, he decided to get his own golden retriever!
He popped a letter in my friend’s mail-box, telling about his escapades with her trio and how transformative the experience had been for him.
I’m sure she had much food for thought and was encouraged to reach out for help in the future.
I learned much from the experience, too; what about you?
B. O. S.