It Rings
We would immediately jump to the aid of a heart attack victim and perform CPR, armed only with the knowledge acquired from life-saving reality TV. Without a moment’s hesitation and while wearing our Sunday best, we would jump into the deep end of a pool to rescue a drowning child.
In contrast, we can recall too many occasions we failed to act when a friend suffered some hardship because we thought we were too busy, weren’t close enough to the person, it was too soon, or we did not know the right thing to say or do. We did not make the outreach even though we had received great comfort from a simple gesture in a similar situation.
Please know that the failure to act can create an opposite, adverse impression. Thirty-five years ago (before the invention of email and cell phones), I ran into an out-of-town friend a month after my sister passed away. After a couple of minutes of pleasantries, I asked if he heard about my sister’s death. He looked downward, nodded his head, and mumbled a few words.
It was a lost opportunity I have not forgotten. I do not hold a grudge against a good person, but the memory provides an enduring reminder to act when faced with a comparable circumstance. A few caring words can be a great source of comfort, and the absence of those same words can leave an enduring negative impression.
You’re the Wrong Person
You will assuredly be drafted into service where you are ill-equipped. A close friend in a 12-step program mentioned he did not have a sponsor. This statement instantly raised an alarm as sponsorship is an essential program element. Even though I was disqualified from sponsorship (must be a participant in the program), I was aware of the immediate, critical need and volunteered to serve as a “monitor.”
With my “but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express” knowledge, I checked in daily with my friend. While lacking the necessary qualifications and expertise, I must have been incredibly inspiring as he found a sponsor within a week. The situation did not require me to do something I could not do but to be actively present until he found what he needed.
Answer It
While a calling may cause discomfort, you may be the person uniquely positioned to serve based on a confluence of need and availability. Providence or karma tells us we are placed in the position where we are needed and will be equipped for the task.
You do not need to adopt a savior complex or engage when unnecessary or where inappropriate. For example, you can render first aid but should not perform field surgery if a hospital is across the street. You undoubtedly possess the emotional and intellectual wherewithal to identify those circumstances where you are the answer and where you are not.
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Be aware of and receptive to the needs of others and establish your reputation as one who answers the call.