A Neat Little Proverb

Earlier today, a friend of mine shared what he called "a neat little proverb" with me.

Be Brave Enough to stand against danger alone,

Be Wise Enough to know when you cannot,

And be Strong Enough to ask for help.

We don't often have to "stand against danger alone," but there are other things we must do, and there are times when we have to do them alone. It takes a certain amount of courage and a certain kind of strength to face life's dangers and challenges alone, and we should all strive to develop that strength and courage in ourselves.

And when the challenge is beyond us, or when we would otherwise benefit from a helping hand, it's good to be wise enough to know when we need or could use some help. Even when we are brave enough to face challenges alone, it's smart to know when we can't and/or don't have to.

Yet, asking for help can sometimes be a challenge in its own right. It takes wisdom to know whom and when to ask, and it takes courage and strength to be willing to ask. Often, we let our pride or our desire to not be a burden to others prevent us from seeking the help that we need and that is readily available. But there is strength in numbers, and one kind of strength is the will to do what it takes to get more strength, even ask for help.

There are times when we need the strength and courage to stand alone, and there are times when we need the strength and courage to ask for help. May we always have the strength and courage to do what we must, and may we have the wisdom to know which kinds of strength and courage to exercise.