So here are two situations I find myself in, and I'm afraid to ask for help, for fear of being told 'no':

#1 I've been physically unwell for some time and I really need to take a break. I have two siblings in my city and would love to ask them to take one of my children for the weekend. Yet, I fear the 'no' will sting so bad, so I don't ask for their help. Maybe cuz I've been told no in the recent past.
On the other hand, I have a friend who I do not hesitate to ask cuz she nearly always says yes. And if she says no it's cuz she really can't. But almost always yes.

#2 I am in desperate need of counseling help with one of my children. I think to call an acquaintance who has the dough to spare, and tell her about the situation I'm faced with with my daughter and ask if she could possibly help out. Yet I am terrified of being told no after exposing my need.

Oh well.