I come to the end of this May Day - the 1st day of May in 2021 - and ponder the many things which have coursed through my mind during the day. I thought of historical May Day celebrations all over the world - the celebration of the onset of Spring - festivals commemorating the bursting forth of new and renewed life all around us. And I smiled. I thought of the dances around the May Pole and the revelry, the laughter, the comradery of family, friends and loved ones.
I also thought of the term: Mayday! Mayday! Mayday! - the distress signal used to alert anyone listening to come forward in an emergency - to assist in life-threatening situations and circumstances. It has been in use since the 20th century - being the phonetic equivalent of the French term m'aidez ("help me").
I also thought about all of the everyday people around me - around each of us - struggling with unseen inner battles - fighting for direction - looking for help in some form or fashion. Seeking light on a journey which, to them, could be the darkest journey of their lives. Possibly their 'Dark Night of the Soul'.
"Everybody Needs A Little Help Sometimes". I often refer to myself as God's Fool. Very often, I find myself needing a little help. I love to offer my help to those in need around me. I often fall short of what I may think is the help they truly need, but nevertheless, I extend myself in a human attempt to fulfill their distress call: Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!
Years ago, I found myself on the side of the road, in the Winter, hitchhiking from Denver, Colorado to Phoenix, Arizona. I was headed out to help a sister who struggled in an extremely difficult set of circumstances. Nightfall quickly approached and a snow storm was headed my way. I had stood in one place for five hours. No ride. An eighteen wheeler finally edged to the side of the road and stopped. I pulled myself into the cab and thanked the driver. He looked at me and said, "There's a man over there who says you're a good guy and that I need to give you a ride." I was startled and said, "I haven't seen or talked with anyone." A voice immediately sounded over the CB radio... "Everybody needs a little help sometimes."
That was God speaking to me through a kind hearted soul. I will always remember this event and also remember to pay attention to those around me who may need a little help. If I can provide it, through discernment and what little wisdom I may have, I plan to do so.
We all go through dark, bleak periods. We all have silently called, 'Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!'. All we're looking for is a kind soul to answer.
Remember: Everybody Needs A Little Help Sometimes. I hope you will be inspired to find a way to offer a little help.
Happy May Day!