We’re gearing up for the season of giving, but these past few months I’ve had to focus my energy on receiving. A running injury had me negotiating the world on crutches as I healed from a stress fracture in my hip. I couldn’t bear any weight on my right side, which meant I got a humbling crash course in asking for assistance.
I am more than happy to give of my time and resources to help a friend in need, yet it pained me to ask my husband to carry my hot coffee from the kitchen to my office or to ask a friend to help with picking up my kids from school on a rainy day. I cringed as I thanked strangers for opening doors for me, and I’m embarrassed to admit that my mom helped me clean my house. Yet, I am so very thankful for my patient husband, my supportive network of family, friends and co-workers, and the strangers who willingly offered help.
While I wouldn’t choose this injury, it’s helped me become more empathetic to others and taught me to be gracious about receiving support. The more help I accept, the better able I am to give what I can.
As you navigate this season of giving, there are plenty of ways to help others. We’ve even highlighted a few of the amazing helpers in our community for inspiration—read about the Prior Lake High School Junior Optimist Club, the largest junior optimist club in the world, as well as the Lakeville Public Safety Foundation.
But in the midst of all this giving, don’t forget that receiving (i.e. self care) is important, too. Whether that means authentically connecting with friends or getting some fresh air and exploring a new corner of your world like Lakeville runner Keri Traub.
Since I’ve gotten so much practice asking for help lately, I am going to ask you all for a quick favor: Please vote in our annual Best of Cities South Readers’ Choice Poll. Our second annual survey features new categories, and voting is live on our website from December 1–January 31. We’ll publish the results in our June/July issue, and I can’t wait to see what you all pick!
