I have a friend who agreed to help me on something half a year ago.
Around the winter holidays, last time we chatted, I told him I was ready to implement my plan but he told me that he was upset that he couldn't help me at that moment, for he was dedicating his time to his family. At the end of that chat, I asked him to let me know once he had time and he responded me with a "yes sir" in jest I suppose, and I returned him a "lol" (something he could have misunderstood).
However, more recently, in January, I asked him when he would have some time available to help me, but it has been more than a month and he has not yet responded or read my message and I feel confused since I do not really understand why and I would not like to blow it as a result of an overwhelming emotion like I have done in the past with other friends.
Question
I would like to know how I can reduce the uncertainty:
- to get a better understanding of whatever is his situation
- to make it easy for him to respond me
- If possible, to plan some date when he can help me or any other plan we can come up with.
[N.B. For I don't want to make it sound as if I'm manipulating him since he already knows that I want his help, I feel that simply asking him "How are you?", could sound insincere.]