In the fast-paced, interconnected world we live in, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of seeking external support and guidance.

We often find ourselves grappling with life's challenges and adversities, attempting to shoulder the burdens of confusion, disillusionment, hurt, and hopelessness alone. I can certainly attest to this in my own life.

For too long, I looked inward for answers, believing that I, and I alone, could navigate the complexities of existence. It was Tina who always got the call, even when it never really occurred to me that I was doing to myself what I considered unfair to do to one person.

How many of us have been guilty of this? How often do we hold ourselves to an impossibly high standard, expecting to be our own saviors in a world full of uncertainty and hardship? The truth is, the burden we place on ourselves can be as overwhelming as that which we place on others.

We live in a society that often glorifies self-sufficiency and individualism.

We’re encouraged to be strong, resilient, and unwavering in the face of adversity. While these qualities are indeed important, it’s equally crucial to recognize that seeking help, leaning on others, and acknowledging our vulnerability are not signs of weakness but rather demonstrations of strength.

My own journey of self-discovery led me to the realization that I had been carrying a heavy load without even realizing it. When faced with confusion, I would tell myself, "You should have all the answers by now." When disillusioned, I'd admonish, "You should have seen it coming." When hurt, I'd reprimand, "You should be tough enough to withstand this pain." And when hopelessness engulfed me, I'd scold myself, "You should be able to pull yourself out of this abyss."

The truth is, these self-imposed expectations often added to the weight of my struggles rather than alleviate them. It was as if I had become my own harshest critic, demanding perfection and invulnerability when none of us is truly exempt from human frailty.

This journey of self-discovery isn't exclusive to me; so many of us share this experience. We grapple with the idea that seeking help is a sign of weakness or a confession of our inadequacy. We believe that we should be able to handle life's challenges entirely on our own, regardless of their magnitude. It's a mindset that's deeply ingrained in our culture.

But here’s the thing: by acknowledging our limitations, by extending a hand for help, and by sharing our burdens with others, we don’t diminish our strength; we amplify it. In our vulnerability, we find resilience. In our willingness to lean on those around us, we discover the power of community and connection.

It’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help; it’s a testament to our humanity.

The people we would turn to in times of distress are a symbol of the support we all need in our lives.

Just as I believed it was unfair to place such a burden on one person, I failed to recognize that I had done the same thing to myself. It was a wake-up call, a reminder that we must treat ourselves with the same compassion and understanding we extend to others.

Remember that you are not alone in your struggles. Recognize that seeking support is not a sign of inadequacy but a display of strength.

So be kinder to yourself, offering the same love and support to your own heart that you readily give to others.

In a world where self-reliance is celebrated, we must also celebrate the beauty of shared burdens and the strength found in the embrace of community.

It’s time to change the narrative, not just for ourselves but for everyone who carries the weight of their world on their shoulders.

Let us acknowledge that we are all human, that we all stumble, and that we all need a helping hand. Together, we can lighten the load, for there is strength in unity, and there is grace in seeking solace beyond the confines of our own minds and hearts.