Are You One of Those People Who Always Lend a Hand?

Let's talk about something that has been on my mind recently.

the art of assisting others.

You know those people who seem to have an almost supernatural ability to sense when someone needs assistance?

The ones who don't just walk past a struggling stranger but actually stop and offer support?

I've been wondering lately,

Am I one of those people?

Are YOU?

I'll be the first to admit that I'm not always the perfect helper.

Sometimes I'm caught up in my own world, scrolling through my phone, completely oblivious to the struggles happening around me.

But there are lovely, human times when something clicks and I feel compelled to take action.

Think about the last time you went out of your way to help someone.

Maybe it was something small like helping an elderly person carry groceries or something more significant like staying late at work to help a colleague finish a challenging project.

In addition to offering immediate aid, these deeds of kindness aim to build communities, build relationships, and disperse a small amount of goodness in an often harsh world.

One day, I was strolling down a crowded downtown street when I noticed a mother juggling many bags and a toddler throwing a full-blown tantrum.

I paused and inquired if she needed assistance, rather than making eye contact and moving more quickly as is customary for city dwellers.

Her face instantly lit up with relief.

For those brief moments, we experienced a truly profound human connection, even though we didn't wind up becoming lifelong friends or anything.

Being helpful isn't always convenient, though.

It often means:

• Sacrificing your own time

• Potentially feeling awkward or uncomfortable

• Not always getting recognition

• Sometimes dealing with people who might not even appreciate your help

So why do we do it?

Why do some people seem hardwired to help while others are more reserved?

I think it comes down to empathy.

People who are naturally inclined to assist others possess the amazing capacity to empathize with others.

They see a person behind the problem, not just a problem.

They are aware that everyone faces difficulties and that sometimes a tiny act of compassion can have a huge impact.

You don't have to be a superhero for this.

Helping doesn't always look like grand gestures. Sometimes it's:

• Holding a door open

• Offering a genuine smile

• Listening without judgment

• Sharing your umbrella on a rainy day

• Sending a supportive text to a friend going through a hard time

I'm curious—what's your natural inclination?

Are you someone who instinctively helps, or do you find yourself hesitating?

There's no shame in either approach.

Self-awareness is key.

For those who want to become more of a "helper," here are some gentle suggestions:

Start small; don't overwhelm yourself

Practice active listening

Be genuine in your offer of help

Don't expect anything in return

Trust your intuition

Helping others frequently benefits YOU just as much, which is a lovely paradox.

Sincere deeds of compassion evoke a sensation of warmth, kinship, and silent delight.

However, there should be a warning: offering assistance shouldn't be motivated by martyrdom or a sense of duty.

Self-sacrifice is not the essence of true assistance; compassion is.

Know your limits, set healthy boundaries, and help from a place of genuine care.

So, dear reader, I'll leave you with this.

When you see someone struggling, halt.

Take a breath.

Ask yourself, "Can I help?"

Sometimes, that split second of consideration is all it takes to make someone's day—or even change their life.

Are you a helper?

I'd love to hear your stories and experiences.

Drop a comment or share a moment when someone's kindness touched you, or when you made a difference for someone else.

Stay kind; stay human.