A Hand Up, not Hand Out

How do you approach helping others? Do you provide assistance with everything, or be a beacon and let the person find his way?

Experiences with my little West Highland Terrier, Snowball, showed me the benefits of not going too far when helping others out. 

The little puppy had a recent operation for hip dysplasia, which involves the hind leg limb loosening and disjointing from the bone socket. Of course, she cannot use the operated leg for a while.

Rather than pushing her about with a pram, I opted to teach her how to use her hind limbs. After some practice, the little dog has reduced her 'bunny hopping' and relies more on her faulty limb. 

I suppose helping others is the same - teaching them empowers them.  It increases their independence and resilience. And, of course, it offers sustainability. 

Here are some free verses, with hands upward. 

Hands

Lifting up

Bruised soul

Soothes tears

in the spirit

Palms

Pushing up

Wayward form

Gives it strength

Hands

Guide being

Allows it to form

With tough

Grace.