“A bend in the road is not the end of the road… unless you fail to make the turn.” ~Author Unknown

A few months ago, I felt I was like I was at my wit’s end: the daily regimen of Lyme supplements, back-to-back doctor’s appointments, stacks of unpaid bills, and a general feeling of being overwhelmed left me feeling anxious and unable to hear myself think.

Out of desperation, I typed a spontaneous text to my friend Susan: “Hope all is well. I have a totally random – and very forward question for you: any chance you need a “caretaker” for a night or two at the beach house? I’m thinking about running away from home and trying to cover all bases.”

I have no idea where the thought of sending that text came from – I never ask for help – but somehow the thought just showed up in my mind and the next thing I knew, I was drafting the text.

After hitting “Send” I felt a sense of calm and peace cascade over my body like a warm blanket. I wasn’t embarrassed about the request, nor did I feel like I was being too forward by asking; it just felt like the “right” thing to do.

A few minutes later I received a text back from Susan: “Are you serious about running away from home? Either way, the answer is yes. Our beach house is yours. You have been there for us so many times. We are happy that we can reciprocate. You are a dear friend.” I was filled with gratitude and joy: I had asked for help and help was offered.

The following weekend, I packed up and left for Pajaro Dunes. The sun lifted my spirits and soaked into my bones and the warm sand allowed me to ground myself to the earth and receive its energy.

I read several books, set goals and intentions, and savored big mugs of coffee. The sound of the ocean and the stillness of the house was the only music I needed to help me slow the chatter in my head.

Two days at the beach was perfect: I was energized, balanced and at peace; I looked forward to the drive home and reconnecting with my family.

As I made the drive over Highway 17, I thought about how easy it is to just keep going straight down life’s path with blinders on and missing the turns. By continuing to go down the road and neglect to take in the sights, veer off for a detour, pull over for food, gas or at a rest stop, it is easy to get to your wit’s end. Asking for help is one of the best (and underutilized) tools in the toolbox.