Not Just Anybody

I have required some assistance with my daily life recently, which has allowed me to reflect with gratitude on my friends and family. It has reminded me of the Beatles’ song, Help.

I need somebody

(Help) not just anybody

(Help) you know I need someone

(Help)

Accepting help is not easy, but sometimes, there isn’t another option. It is humbling but in the best possible way.

While preparing for this season, I knew I would (and could) rely primarily on Leroy and Sierra. They didn’t have a choice, but they were willing participants. However, we have a new family member now, so I also asked Taylor for help too. She didn’t even hesitate. She jumped in with both feet, and I am forever grateful. It has only been a year since I met this girl, and I am continually shocked at how well she fits into our family.

When Taylor took care of me one day, I paused and asked her, “Did you ever think you’d be doing this for me a year ago when we met in the Dutch Bros drive-thru?” She laughed and said no. Neither did I. But what surprised me the most at that moment was that I was willing to be so vulnerable and dependent on this girl. Don’t get me wrong, she makes it easy. Her kind heart is filled with love and service. I have the barriers, but she’s torn down the wall.

I did not have the best example of mother-in-law/daughter-in-law relationships when I was growing up, for no fault of my sisters-in-law. My mom was often challenging to get along with. I am so thankful those experiences have not influenced my relationship with Taylor. (Maybe it has, but in the opposite way.) I can’t believe how much I like this girl.

This interaction got me thinking. What other limiting beliefs keep me from experiencing the best part of life and the people around me? I’ve certainly learned that I should “never say never.” And I am improving at not jumping to judgmental conclusions about another’s actions. (Although this area still needs some work.) I will use this experience as a template for further interactions. I will remember that an anybody can become a somebody when you let them in and let them help.