Iowans have always had an independent streak a mile wide.

Maybe it goes back to the days when our forebears trekked across the plains to eke out a meager living from the soil and coal mines.

There was something satisfying in knowing that you didn’t need anyone to survive and thrive in what was a fairly hostile environment.

Over the years, the conditions may have changed, but underneath it all, pride in our independent nature has come to be a defining quality of our state.

But sometimes the difference between fierce independence and foolish pride is too close to call.

Such has been the case of late as Iowans, in desperate need of help after recent disasters caused by flooding and tornadoes, have been reluctant to accept help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The purpose of FEMA is to help in times of crisis, and our tax dollars go into its coffers for just such emergencies.

If no one uses that money, it doesn’t get sent back to the taxpayers, it sits there and fills the government’s coffers.

According to the Associated Press, FEMA spokesman Gene Romano said there is plenty of money set aside to help everyone whose home was damaged last month, but many are refusing to apply for the aid on the grounds that it feels too much like charity.

It isn’t accepting charity to take money from your own government in times of crisis.

You paid for it, Iowa, and now it is time to collect.

When disaster strikes around the country, Iowans are always first on the scene to offer their help and send supplies.

Now is the time to get something in return and there is no shame in it.

If you know someone who is choosing to go it alone in the pioneer spirit, remind them that pride comes before a fall.

There is no shame in taking a helping hand when it is so generously offered.