The Man and the Wood

Lessons from Aesop’s Fable The Man and the Wood

Lessons from Aesop’s Fable The Man and the Wood

The Man and the Arms

May mga tao na ibinigay mo na ang kamay mo, pati braso, gusto pang kunin.

We’ve heard of this a hundred times. Some people would repeatedly ask for help. And it seems they have no qualms about inconveniencing others, asking for almost everything already.

For the person giving help, he often doesn’t mind giving a favor once in a while. Likewise, it would be unkind to refuse requests. It feels good being of service, too – initially. But time will come he will end up despising himself for his weakness as he soon realizes he is being used already.

Are you this kind of person who feels helpless saying no to every favor asked?

Remember, some individuals will try to exploit you if you allow them to. You don’t also need to help everyone especially if he doesn’t like to help himself.

There are a few things we learned about extending help. We hope you will find this realization useful and guide you as you provide service to others.

Put your own needs first

This is not selfishness. Often when I feed the toddlers, the husband would always remind me that I eat first. By putting my needs ahead of others, I will be able to extend more patience and time for my playful boys. There will be less irritation as I watch them chew slowly. This means, too, that if I was able to adequately fulfill my needs will I be in a position to extend help to those who can’t.

Created problems aren’t your problem

Some people live in misery because they create a disaster for themselves. They either lack concern for consequences or they enjoy misery. Such type of individuals who self create problems are usually a waste of time and effort. Do not be a hero and try to repair them. Let them solve their problem – you are doing them a bigger favor.

Help those who can’t help themselves

Some people genuinely need our help.  There are those who only need a little push from us then can manage on their own. There are also who would want to avoid responsibility, thus totally rely their dependency on us.

In extending help, aim to feel great about the act and not feel depleted and taken advantage of. Because when you felt the latter, it means you are just forced to do some random act of kindness. Lend a hand to those who truly need a push because of their situation or their capacity to help themselves is limited.

Do not compromise your principles

Never compromise your ideals and reputation just to save a soul. Lying or giving false information for the sake of another person to help him will only put you in an awkward situation. This is not helping but manipulating the situation or covering the truth.

Lessons from Aesop’s Fable The Man and the Wood

Giving is a choice. And it feels good to give and extend help especially to those needing one. A sincere help warms the heart and soul and there is this unexplainable satisfaction in our heart. But once we feel bothered and helpless already because of giving too much, the act of helping might be questionable. Never allow people to grab your entire arms and leave you all battered that you can’t even stand anymore to help yourself.

admberlin