It is natural to reach out and turn to someone for help when one’s in trouble. This is a tendency of the self and hence must be nurtured. Because it means so much to the concerned person and all other concerns pale beside it.

There are many ways of getting out of a problem, both imagined and real. This is where ‘reaching out’ comes in. Whenever this happens, one puts out cues that are picked up by the others if they are sensitive enough. Otherwise, these may go unnoticed. The response may not be the one expected and disappointment may set in — which may be dispelled if the situation improves.

Any signal of distress produces surprise and shock; it’s necessary to restrain oneself. What one thinks of as a bit of hassle may not be regarded as such by another person. Putting a lid on things will not work out either, for, in that case, it boils over. Any help that comes is welcome. Of course, one can also receive encouragement before ‘rea-ching out’. The need for charity is only to be expected and has to be explored as an alternative. The condition may not be as bad as one thinks and may not have reached the point of no return.

‘Reaching out’ takes precedence because our imagination does not make this gesture less meaningful and lacking in urgency, but roots it in reality. The need for an overture at this point marks the beginning of a phase where receiving becomes necessary. And the recipient is grateful for any offer of help.

Moreover, it would provide a glimpse of what is transpiring and so kindle hope; not to be dimmed by the prospect of having to receive. ‘Reaching out’ can open up the heartstrings and make for allowances. This could take the form of advice or suggestion and even professional counselling. But for this to happen one has to open up without the fear of rejection.

So, given the uncertainties, assuming the mantle of a hapless figure is the best one can do. Here gloom and doom may cut short any move to reveal the desperation within. At stake: one’s prospect of being on the receiving end of an act of generosity. This, in turn, would entail gratitude for favours received: It’s good not to postpone thanking the benefactor.