Just being there

Last week I installed tile in the basement. It was done in a hurry and because of that, it was done badly. It was so reminiscent of life, I had to scrape the tiles up and prepare the surface to tile it for a second time. Some of the mortar scraped up easily, but where the sun had hit it, it was more difficult. I became discouraged, as the mortar became more set. I scraped, my hand hurt and my frustration increased.

My daughter came down and asked me what I was doing. I explained my situation. She immediately asked if I would like some help. I responded that I would, but if I were honest, I would have to admit that I didn't think she would be able to contribute much.

I was wrong. She helped out immensely. Before I knew it, the area had been cleared and we were done. I don't know what she did that was so effective but her contribution paid off.

I honestly don't know if it was the work she did, or the encouragement she gave me just by taking some of the weight off my shoulders and not making me feel that everything was on me. Maybe it was a combination of both aspects, but the net result is that the job got done and I felt so relieved. I also realized that she shared in the credit for our success.