Lessons from motherhood: Sometimes you have to ask for help - 18 April 2024

I am amazed, week after week, when I watch the development of the little one in our house.

It is absolutely amazing to see how she learns new things, how she imitates us and how she finally does things herself, with a strong will and confidence.

She received a baby doll for Christmas from one of her grandfathers and has been attached to the doll ever since. She takes care of the doll all the time – feeds the doll, taps her bum to make her sleep, soothes her and kisses her on the forehead constantly. Sometimes, the doll falls off the chair when the two of them sit and eat together, because space is limited. Sometimes, she does not get the pacifier or baby bottle in the doll’s little mouth and then she screams in frustration. Sometimes, the poor doll’s clothes have to be taken off and she has to get another outfit.

Guess who needs to help and make plans? Mummy or daddy. (I had to put a stop to it when she wanted to take the doll to church completely naked.)

That is the one thing I have learnt over and over in the past two years. Sometimes, you have to ask for help. We cannot do everything by ourselves. You are not always going to manage everything on your own. There will be times when you will feel tired and discouraged, frustrated and completely overwhelmed. Then, you should be able to ask for help. You can. It does not make you a weakling.

Also remember – sometimes God can send help through people and ways you do not expect. And sometimes the bigger challenge is not asking for help, but accepting it.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I cannot do everything in this life by myself. I need help with so many things. Help me please, Father. Help me to accept and appreciate the help that comes my way. Amen