I hate asking for help. I didn't really realize this until we moved 8,000 miles away. I guess I never really had a need for much of it until now... but this move has put me outside of my comfort zone in more ways than one. In fact, I'm pretty sure I've spent more time outside my comfort zone than in it the last 7 months.
Growing and learning, learning and growing... famous last words from a student affairs practitioner...
In the last two weeks, I've asked my mom to send me a package of stuff I can't get here, like a toddler backpack for Wyatt, hairball treats for the cats, etc. Robin and my mom both sent me a huge stack of coupons (we can use them up to 6 months after the expiration date here, and I love coupons!) My friend Kim sent me some Tylenol & Motrin for the kids because there's none available on the island that hasn't been recalled. And today I asked a new friend to watch my two kids on Friday night because our babysitter is busy, but I don't want to miss my husband's promotion party.
Looking at this on the screen, it doesn't seem like such a big deal. So I asked some people for a favor - not a huge deal. The problem is, I feel like I do it all the time here, because I am without the comforts of "home" and I have two small children and a husband who is frequently MIA. Before Japan I never would have considered asking a friend I just met 3 months ago to watch my two kids for the night, especially my 3 month old baby. In fact, I debated about it for a solid hour before doing so, and probably only did it because she had offered before and then I just happened to run into her at the commissary today.
I don't know what my problem is, but it's just hard for me... you know, the whole independent woman thing. I am so grateful for people's help... I feel like I write these thank you notes to people, but I wish there was more I could do to return the favors people do for me on a regular basis. I just feel like every time I turn around, I am asking someone for something. The list is endless, ranging from "Can I please borrow your water hose," neighbor I hardly know? to "Can you please watch my kid while I am in labor," random person my husband works with?
It's humbling, really. Apparently I can't do everything on my own. Which makes me super excited about trying to for 7 months when Tommy is deployed. Move over, comfort zone...or maybe please just expand a little so I don't feel so bad all the time. ;)
4 comments:
WOW, I feel that way all the time - even though I am stateside and have to ask people for favors that I have known for years...so I could NEVER do what you're doing and do it so well. But I imagine that you are all there, outside your comfort zone, working together to make it away from your families. God Bless you and your wonderful husband who is making our homeland a safe and peaceful place!
PS - the post from Thomas is from me, Rissy Roo. Forgot to log my Dad out of his email before signing in! I am going senile already...
Hate to admit this, but you get it from your mother....it is the ONE thing that I absolutely HATE about myself...that I cannot, and most times, will not ask for help...what is with this? I LOVE to help everyone else. I just don't get it. Good luck and let me know if you ever get over it!!
hey, any coupons you are looking for specifically? i coupon too and often have many expired that i throw away...i'd be happy to send you some rather then throw them away!!
Post a Comment