Hi Megan,

When you (general you) say, “Oh, I dislocated my thumb, can only use my left hand”, most people will be all, “Oh, that sux, you poor thing!” but will not have an overwhelming instinct to ask if they could help. They don’t “get” that not functioning without a thumb/hand could be as debilitating as being on crutches.

Now, if you had (God forbid) cancer or were in the hospital, you bet people, some you don’t even think about, would suddenly manifest and ask if they could help.

On the other hand, are you all, “Oh, can I help?” before someone else thinks to ask? That’s good nature and good breeding.

I guess I’m saying that people are clueless and to accept your friends where they are.

You could call some and say (with no hint of guilt tripping), “Hey, I’m having trouble. Do you mind picking up something for me when you go to the store? Great! When? Thank you!!”