When Helping a Person in Need, Test Your Intentions

“Helping a person in need is good in itself. But the degree of goodness is greatly affected by the attitude with which it is done. If you show resentment because you are helping the person out of a reluctant sense of duty, then the person may receive your help but may feel embarrassed. If, on the other hand, you help the person in a spirit of joy, then the help will be received joyfully. The person will feel neither demeaned nor humiliated by your help, but rather will feel glad to have caused you pleasure by receiving your help.” ~ St. John Chrysostom

Reflection: Many times people with disabilities and their caregivers find it difficult to ask for and receive help from others because they do not wish to inconvenience anyone.

For those offering assistance, test your intentions. If you act out of a sense of resentful duty, you will likely do more harm than good. If your offering arises from goodwill, the receiver will be doubly helped in both body and soul.

If you are a caregiver and are finding it difficult to offer help to your loved one in a spirit of peace, then you may be in need of help. Seek support from friends, family, medical professionals, counselors, and a trusted priest – without embarrassment.

We all need to learn to both give and receive with grace in order to experience the joy of life in Christ.

Not by me – Source lost