Ask for Help

Written by: Collette Cottingham; Creatively Hip

I survived a storm I didn’t see coming. When the storm hit it hit hard. The waves surrounded me. The power of the waves knocked me off my life path. I was sucked under.

When you are underwater there is nothing but darkness. You lose your way. You can’t see the surface. You have no idea where to go or what to do.

Terrifying feeling, I know! I had moments of hysteria. I was in a deep dark pit. I stayed in despair for some time.

Then there came a day I didn’t want to be there anymore, but I was stuck. I didn’t think anyone cared about me. I couldn’t live this way any longer. I finally got the courage to ask for help.

Several people helped me, some didn’t know how to help, so they listened. Others found people who could help.

My son remembered how happy I was when I danced. He suggested a dance class. What a lifesaver that was. I am so appreciative because I had forgotten the things I once enjoyed.

Asking for help is so difficult for some. It is for me. I don’t want to burden anyone, but sometimes you are going to be a burden. It is only temporary. If I didn’t burden people then I wouldn’t be here. I am now in a better place.

It wasn’t an easy road. I am glad I got knocked off my path. I am closer with my children, friends and family. I even have new friends I met during the storm. Yes, there were moments of hysteria and emotional breakdowns. It is amazing how a good cry can actually relieve some of the stress.

The relief of stress gave way to moments of clarity, questions and thoughts. These thoughts brought through small cracks of light, hope and pain.

All the things I was afraid to face came to the surface. I was able to face the truth and begin the healing process. I couldn’t do it alone. I reached out for help. I am forever thankful for everyone who has helped and continues to help.

I know I was a whole bag of mixed emotions, but that is okay. It is where I was during that moment in time. I was in the present working the problem in front of me.

My fear made me stronger. It gave me the ability to finally reach out for help. Others helped me to the surface. And when I was ready they helped me into the boat.

In time, I was on a new path. One I never even envisioned for myself. My new path was so strange and different. This path was outside of my comfort zone. When I got scared I realized I wasn’t on my new path alone. The people who helped were there too.

This path is my new future. A future I never dreamed possible.

I reflect on all I have learned and accomplished, and what I can teach others. I know asking for help used to be so hard. I didn’t want to be a bother. Now I have no fear of asking for help, and I want other people to know they don’t need to fear it either.

I want to help others the way they helped me. I wasn’t pushed, people helped me at a pace that worked for me.

You can survive a storm. You will come out changed but that is okay, help is there all you need to do is ask.