I sent this email on Sunday:
It is not easy to admit that I am swallowing my pride. In fact, it sort of hurts going down. I haven’t tried it lately, and maybe that is why I had to break my arm – so God could really teach me humility. Or, more accurately, perhaps the good that shall come of this unfortunate event is that I will be more humble when all is said and done.
The state of my house after five days is sad. It’s embarrassing, even if I do have a
broken arm. My dishes are going to take over the kitchen, and my dog peers at me from among the baskets of laundry. I told myself that a waterproof cast would take care of the dishes, but I was not counting on the pain. It’s not overwhelming or unbearable – as long as I behave myself. That means I chase the toddler, and throw myself in sight of a pillow before long to prop my arm.The meals, though – that part is taking care of itself. (Thanks, Sue!)
Why am I emailing you? Because, in Mass last night, I thought of you, and of how each of you have offered me “whatever help I need.” And how I told each of you “Thanks but I’m fine.” And how Jesus let a woman wash his feet with her hair, and if he could do that, the least I can do is let a friend come in and help me with a touch of housework. If Jesus calls us to be humble, then I have a long way to go.
I’m swallowing my pride with you, and I’m hoping you will forgive me for not having done it sooner. I will gratefully accept your help, and pray a rosary for you, for any help you are willing to give. I am blessed beyond my ability to express it to have women like you in my life.
Keeping in mind that Jesus let himself be ministered to, I ask for your help. Call in the troops. I can’t do this alone.
And any prayers…hey, those would be fabulous too.
Thanks again. I am overcome by gratitude to know that I am “safe” in swallowing my pride with you. (And then I think – see how far God has to go? Good thing he’s not a giving-up kind of God!)
Hugs and appreciation,
Sarah
Within hours, the troops were mobilized. Last night, A. came over and tackled the dishes. As a bonus, she brought her three blonde tumblers, and Toddler-tron had a play date.
So it’s my turn to be the one ministered TO. Why do I fight it so much? It’s really not so bad, once you swallow your pride. One of the replies by Grandma Glo went something like this: “Take a deep breath and let out a burp for good measure. Now that you’ve gotten that pride out of the way, let’s get the troops ready!”
This lesson in humility is making me think about confession – about how I avoid it and duck it and dread it, and then, in the end, come away saying, “Oh, THAT wasn’t so bad! That was actually…kind of…fun…relieving…good!” Why am I surprised? God wants nothing less than the best for me. Why do I doubt him?
He has a lot of work to do with me. Now, to just step aside and let him get crackin while these amazing women do what they do best…
Tags: Catholic, Christian, Faith & Reflection
I wish I were closer for this reason. I’d be there in a hearbeat. Funny, I don’t mind doing dishes at a friend’s house. I don’t mind folding laundry for someone else. I, infact, enjoy it because of the company.
Since I can’t be there I’ll say some prayers for you instead.
love ya!
Thanks for sharing all this. It really encourages me to be more humble. You’re in my prayers!
Man, that’s a lengthy S.O.S.
You know that story of Mary and Elizabeth – the 2nd Joyful Mystery? Yeah, sometimes we’re supposed to be Elizabeth.
Of course, I’ve said I’m sorry to my husband about 30 times in the last 2 days…Sorry he has to do the dishes, sorry he had to make lunch and dinner, sorry he has to change the diapers…
What an awesome testimony. Thank you for sharing that. Sometimes its hard to remember that we need to ministered to also.
In Christ,
Travis
First of all, a very belated comment to give you sympathy on your arm. I’m way behind on my blog reading and am just now catching up on your posts from the past few weeks.
Also, I’m so glad to hear that you asked for help. How great. In a way, I’m sure you were doing your friends a favor. Few things make people feel better than being needed.
You don’t have to be Catholic to appreciate that sentiment. You have two family members/friends in Columbus that would be happy to help out also.
Humility is the hardest virtue to practice… at least for me! God bless. I will include you in my prayer intentions, and when I light my after-Mass candle on Sunday.