I’ve mentioned my upcoming hernia operation to a few friends.
My mother and an old friend both offered to drive in from out of state to stay with me as I recover. That’s very sweet of them to offer but I declined. The last thing I want is company when I will be miserable, cranky, pessimistic and agitated.
My neighbor will bring me home from surgery and is my emergency contact who will take care of my dogs if I get stuck at the hospital or die on the operating table (I can only wish).
My neighbor is a good man. He drove me home last year after my first hernia surgery. Last year, I felt awkward asking him. I thought to myself, “I don’t have anyone else I am all alone”. It made me feel pathetic and sad.
This year I knew different. I asked and he said “sure”.
Then I remembered a few other friends nearby who would help if only I asked.
I told a friend at the pool about my upcoming surgery. He responded, “Do you have people who are going to bring you food and help you during the first week? I can do that – just say the word. Even if you just want a pizza one night, all you need to do is send me your address and I’ll bring it.”
I have another long time friend from work who I’m certain would bring me home, if only I asked him (he’s my emergency backup even though he doesn’t know it yet).
If those two couldn’t make it, I have at least three other neighbors on my street who I am am certain would help me if I asked.
In just a few minutes, I was able to to identify 4 people on my street, 2 in my city and 3 from out of town who would help me.
Despite the fact that I am introvert and life a socially isolated hermit-like life, I am not all alone.
I hope that you are not alone too.