i know what you're talking about, rdgrad.
i must seem to appear very inadequate because people are always asking me if i need help. i don't. i need to do it myself.

but, it is a gesture of kindness for them to offer; another of life's little lessons in kindness to others. this time it is OUR turn to be kind, and thankfully decline, with the explanation that "i need to do this myself, Thanks".