A Closed Mouth Won't get Fed...

I heard this saying at least a hundred times; Mostly by my grandma who used it as a way to compare an issue of "Pride" that she felt my father and I shared, but today my sister said it and it immediately made me think about how many things we need but never open our mouths and ask for it.

How many times has your pride gotten in the way of you having something that was attainable?? How many things have you not asked God for because you weren't sure if he'd "respond"?? Or better yet, how many times have you seen someone in need, but refused to act simply because they didn't ask for help?

"God helps those who help themselves" is a quote that I use quite often, mostly when I am either too lazy or to proud to ask for or give help... Did you know that this saying isn't even in the bible? But was a quote by Ben Franklin

Yes, I am guilty as charged. I have a stupid habit of keeping my mouth shut at the wrong times. I've refused help because I didn't want to appear needy or vulnerable. I refused to help others because I didn't want to be around needy or vulnerable people... It's a crazy cycle.

There are so many things we have to offer (to God, our friends, families, co-workers, etc) but we refuse to offer or ask for them. Be it money, a ride to the market, or a simple hug we gotta do better. I gotta do better.

So, as we start this New Year, I offer to you my gifts... No, I can't sing but I don't sound that bad when others are singing really loud, I can bake a mean chocolate cake,and I'm learning to make cookies, I can clean really well(even though you wouldn't know it from my own home and I'm Strong too, so if you need something moved here I am. I can cheer people up, I can make you laugh, and if you wanna go out for a drink I'm your girl. I can sew, I can cook, I can even lend you $20 maybe even $50... I can stay up all night and let you know it's gonna be alright, I can give you advice, I can encourage, I can hug, I can pray with or for you...I can come up with really great ideas (some strange and crazy, but alot of good ones)I can totally spoil a movie or book too. If you need a ride, I got you. If you need gas money give me a call. If you need a place to crash so you can sort things out let me know...

I don't want to stand on the sidelines and watch you break down and refuse to help because you didn't ask... So, If you need anything (and I mean ANYTHING) just ask, and even if you don't ask I'll ask - -

Everything is gonna be alright :-B