It's the humility, stupid...

I'm not very good at asking for help. Not at work, and not in my personal life.

Somewhere along the line, I got it into my head that it's a sign of weakness if I need to ask someone to help me with something (though I don't think that other people are weak when they ask ME for help....). Plus, there's an element of childish ego at play, as in "I can do it all by myself!" Still. At the age of 41.
Yeah.

And when someone DOES help me, even with the smallest of tasks, there's a part of me that feels shame, like I shouldn't have needed any help. Truly, it's difficult for me.

So my recent financial crisis has been a real learning experience. Not only did I have to come right out and ask for help (thanks, Mom!), I allowed myself to accept help from friends who offered it. And I don't think I can properly express how touched I am. It may sound silly, but it's really warmed my heart. The cups of coffee. The cocktails. The offers of cash, from those I know are just as strapped as I am. The gift certificate for a mani/pedi. The brainstorming. And especially the listening and commiserating.

There are so many times I feel like I'm completely alone in this world, but I know now that I am not. I have such amazing people in my life. I really do. Lucky, lucky me!