Favors...

I’ve always been a friendly and extremely helpful person. That’s because I always want to be proud of the person looking back at me when I look in the mirror. I also enjoy living life this way. Being friendly and helpful makes me feel good.

The other day I went out of my way to help someone I didn’t even know. I just happened to noticed he needed some help. I introduced myself to him and asked if I could help. The help involved some heavy lifting. On that particular day I knew that I was not going to make it to the gym so helping this person was going to be my exercise for the day.

Helping out this person took about an hour of my time. When it was over I was drenched in sweat but I didn’t mind. It was exactly what I wanted. Before walking away I was given a very gracious “thank you” and handshake.

A few days later I was involved in an outside project that involved some heavy lifting and boy I really could’ve used some help. While I was working I noticed the person I had helped walking by. We greeted each other with a friendly “hello” and a handshake and he continued on his way. I must admit I was a little disappointed he didn’t offer to help me.

But then I realized something.

He wasn’t obligated to help me. Expecting a favor in return shouldn’t be the reason to do a favor for someone. For some reason I forgot that. At first I was disappointed with the person I helped but then I became disappointed in myself even more.

This will not stop me from helping others. I will continue to lend a helping hand wherever possible. As a matter of fact, it has motivated me to help out more.

It makes me feel good to do so.