Call If You Need Anything

I just read a post that mentioned that often-repeated phrase:  'Call if you need anything.'  Maybe I'm just a little odd or too independent (very likely both), but I wince when I hear that phrase.  It is well-meaning, but my immediate take on the phrase is "mechanical" or "token."  Now, having said that, I hasten to add that the problem is not their desire to help, the problem lies within me and the filter with which that phrase passes through.    I guess I'm learning first-hand about the truism "It's better to give than receive."  Well, now I'm on the receiving end way too often for my liking, and I find it very difficult to ask friends and neighbors, and, yes, even family for help.  Gee, I wish they would have said, 'I'll call you and see if you need anything,' but there again lies my problem and that filter thingie keeps getting in my way.  Pride can be a terrific tool of defeat!    'Lord, you are teaching me, but I am a stubborn mule.  How have you put up with me for so many years?  Thanks, though, that your patience has no end; your love is all-encompassing; your care for me is always right on target; and your plans for me are greater than I could ever imagine.'   So, when the mower won't start, the tree falls across the lane, or when I put the wrong gas in the mower and you can see the smoke from a mile away, I guess that would be the time to take those dear sweet friends up on their offer:  'Hello, this is TJ.  I have a problem.'   God bless those who have a spirit of helpfulness—and mean it!!  For this widow appreciates their strength, their knowledge, their capability, and their time—all of which they are willing to pledge to a friend.    I have to make a confession before ending my journal entry:  I sure don't want to make calling for help habit-forming, and as a result have my friends dread to pick up the phone when they see my number on caller ID—'Oh, no, it's TJ again'!