If you need me

After Rocky died, people had the best of intentions.  They said, "call me if you need anything".  They meant it.  Many had a need to emphasize how much they meant it.  Saying that they know everyone says it but they are the real deal.  I can't even begin to tell you how many people professed to be the real deal. 

Then, there was another group of people.  These said I know you are strong and fairly private so you will let me know when you want me to step in.  These are the people who knew me better and knew just how stubborn I could be.  They used my personality as their out.  At least that's how I see it.  Oh, she is strong.  She has this.  She will let us know what to do.  She wouldn't want me to interfere.  I don't want to make her angry or step on her toes.  I will just wait in the wings until she tells me she needs something.  To be honest, what a cop out!

Here is the analogy.

You are on a boat in the ocean and someone falls overboard.  You know this person knows how to swim so you just watch.  The boat is moving farther away.  You yell to the person.  "Hey, if you think you need a life ring just let me know.  I am right here ready to throw it as soon as you say so."  Does that make sense?  Absolutely not.  You see the person struggle but you watch and wait.  You don't call for help or send the life ring, you are watching them sink.  I don't think I know a single person who would not immediately call for help and throw the ring. 

So why is it when we are drowning in life, no one throws the ring.  The person in the water is panicked.  The person in the water is giving every ounce of their effort to just stay floating above water.  The person sinking is scared.  For the love of God, throw the life ring.  Be the support. 

Lip service is just that.  Be willing to jump in if necessary.