OK, Ive been putting off this shout-out because I didnt want to embarrass this person, but I cant shake the feeling that I really want to share what she did for me and Nicholas. One afternoon a few weeks ago, Nicholas really wanted to go to the pool. It really takes two of us to get Nick in and out of the pool safely, especially after hes wet (all 85 pounds of him). It is a full lift from the water to his wheelchair at poolside. Even though it was just me, I couldnt stand telling him we couldnt swim, so I told myself mind over matter. I got him in fine and we swam for a couple of hours and I chatted with friends as my mind wandered about how I was going to get him out by myself. I never mentioned the dilemma and I just told myself somehow it would work out. A friend of mine gathered up her kids and headed out with a quick, Are you going to need any help? to which I replied, No, well be fine but thanks! 20 minutes later I was sitting poolside watching Nicholas and preparing to figure out how I was going to lift him to get him out. At that time, my friend came back by herself and said, Im back to help. I can stay as long as you want but I couldnt stop thinking about you getting him out by yourself. I am here to help you. That person was Betsy Swart Burns. Sometimes we turn down help from others to avoid causing them work or worry or more trouble, or maybe even because we dont want to admit we need help. I was reminded of a valuable lesson that day. Accept help when it is offered, because it benefits everyone involved. I will never forget seeing Betsy come back in the pool gate and the smile on her face as I realized she was there for me and for Nicholas. She refused to listen to my refusal for help. She had no idea this would ever be mentioned again, which is indicative of a true act of kindness, giving and expecting nothing in return.
Posted on: Sun, 20 Jul 2014 22:00:36 +0000