I know. Everyone takes this same picture. It is not original. I get that. The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Put hands out and push it back. So I posted mine upside down just to be different. 
That’s my husband in the picture. But in everyday life, I am no “Tower of Pisa picture” of fake weight resting on his push back. I am the real deal. A person of weakness with a slow lean into gravity’s pull.
Sometimes I down play my mothering abilities and capabilities, I often feel unqualified.
Sometimes I find other things to do than parent; seems easier.
I wrestle often with my role as mother and my vocation as educator.
I have no clear opinion (anymore) on stay-at-home-mothers vs. those who pursue careers.
But I have someone who lets me lean on him when my insecurities flare up or deep, real questions about life surface. This past week I had to lean into his clarity and hope in order to stand tall once again. He pushed all negativity aside.
He happens to be my husband, but we all need people like this in our lives. A spouse, a friend, a teacher, a mentor, or a family member. So to whomever might lovingly hold hands out to you, admit once in a while that you need them.
Our weaknesses may be different, but our need is the same. Introverted or extroverted, we were created for community and relationships. These work best when we are honest and admit we lean. So lean on, friend. Someone WILL care for you. Believe that!
And while you lean into them, ask yourself, who needs you? Who might really find respite by leaning into you? It might be your brother, your son, your co-worker, or that girl down the road. You may know instantly who or it might take a bit of time to discern. Either way…
Be there.
Put your hands up.
Let’s chase hope together!
Two remarkable posts by ladies I have great admiration for. Check them out, even if you aren’t a mom…
SuperBowl and chasing hope– http://lisajobaker.com/2013/02/when-mama-aint-happy/
Bangladesh and chasing hope– http://lifefordessert.com/2013/01/29/a-mothers-heart/
Kim Hyland
I love this, Nasreen! It’s such a confirmation of what I’m learning. Just last night I LEANED hard into my husband too, as I spilled my heart and lots of tears. Today again I leaned into him and my daughter too, as I asked them to carry things awhile so I could “run away” to a coffee shop for a few hours. We’re so blessed to have loved ones to lean on!
Chelle
I love the way you talk about your husband…I get it. My beloved and I lean into one another, we really are yin and yang. What a blessing to find the piece of the puzzle God crafted just for you. You are blessed. Imagine what your children learn about love watching you both.
Beautiful, sweet girl, beautiful.
nasreenfynewever
Jessica, some how I think it is possible to lean and soar at the same time. So that is my hope for you. Glad you stopped by the blog today. Be well.
Jessica Lamer
I needed to hear this today. thank you.