Helping

One of my nephews, while texting with me Sunday morning, said this:

"You know as much about resilience as anyone I know- any tidbits for today?"

We had been writing back and forth about dealing with personal challenges, when he decided to ask for some advice. I felt honored. (And this, by the way, was my "unexpected joy" on Sunday. See my April 2 post titled "Joy".)

I answered my nephew with a list I had just made for myself, for a dreary Sunday in early April (decidedly NOT spring) in Vermont. His response was that my list sounded like a good day, which made my day even better.

What does it mean to be helpful? It means a whole lot to me, probably more than anything else I do. I feel honored when friends or family members ask for my help. And I know how to accept help from my friends. What is more important than being helpful? And what is more important than accepting help when it is offered freely? Feeling appreciated for what we offer others is pretty great too.

As I enjoy my morning coffee, accompanied by bright yellow tulips (store bought) and forsythia branches (forced indoors), I look out at another morning of mixed precipitation, and I wonder what unexpected joy today will bring. I have already received a helpful text message from a close friend. Perhaps that is what will go on my list today.

My career was in the helping professions. I helped a lot of people as a psychotherapist, as well as throughout my years as a psychology professor. I am a helper. This gives my life meaning and it brings me joy.