Entertaining out-of-town guests in August was simple.
The post on July 31 (#166) alerted me, and my readers, some of whom would be visitors, of my usual pattern of over-preparing for guests.
It wasn’t easy to admit I worry about making everything perfect, especially knowing that some of the people reading would be visiting.
I wasn’t clear where the reluctance to share my struggle was coming from until later. It wasn’t simple to admit partly because I’m the oldest sister and in addition to that – insecure at times. Sometimes I put pressure on myself and think that I’m to care for everyone with seeming ease and resourcefulness.
I don’t want to need help. Admitting that I am human & struggle leaves me feeling vulnerable.
I’m happy to report the results of being vulnerable were fantastic!
Especially because two of my sisters, who both read blog and came to visit, asked how they could help. They asked in a genuinely supportive way. (I imagine they have always asked but the difference this time was that I felt I didn’t have to maintain a picture of effortless hostessing.) I’d already admitted what I was struggling with!
It is sometimes not so simple to ask for help. It is often easier to pretend that we can handle everything by ourselves.
Is it simple for you to be vulnerable? Do you let people know when you struggle? Can you ask for help?
Please let me know by replying to this email or going to blog comment section. Let’s be vulnerable together!
Thanks for exploring the mystery – Nicky Mendenhall