Recently I was reading a book that prompted me to think of times when help from unexpected places came into my life. At first I noticed help came when I was in distress. As life continued I began to realize help came when I needed it the most.

I know I am not alone when I mention receiving help from unexpected places. The help of someone you barely know, who knows you are struggling with something comes to your assistance. The silent nod that tells you someone understands.

In most people, there appears to be an unspoken, mutually agreed upon oath to help others. The distress of grief and loss may compound some issues and affect how support is received and perceived.

Connecting with individuals who share a similar experience may help you heal, but you have to be open to receiving this support. Sometimes after a loss and when grief is at its heaviest, individuals may purposefully isolate themselves from others; seeing any attempt to help as an intrusion.

Be aware of what you are doing when you are feeling lost for whatever reason. Solitude can be a spot of rejuvenation to visit for a while. Be open to receiving assistance from unexpected places. Ask for what you need even if you say it in your mind and then watch what happens.

The help may not come immediately, but when you are open to the idea of help from unexpected places it begins to appear. Is this part of positive thinking and believing? Perhaps!

Do you know where your help from unexpected has places come from? Is it from a friend, stranger, partner, business, church, or someplace else?

Perhaps you have been the support for someone else. Either way, giving or receiving help is a way of healing. An indicator you are getting better or not, because you are not ready to offer or receive supports. Staying stuck may be your outcome.

I remember a mom whose child died and during a counselling shared how she was asked to help another mom whose child had died. The first mom shared how she felt the second mom was worse off than she was. This prompted the statement, “I have to help her”.

By helping the other mom, both shared a similar loss, both were moms in great pain. Even though helping someone else or receiving supports is a step in the right direction it by no means lessens the pain of a child loss. I do not think that ever truly goes away. If possible be supportive of each other as life puts struggles in your way.