I’ve been writing about caregiving the past few months and reflected on the powerful examples in my family. Years ago my grandparents emigrated from Poland to the United States in search of a better life for their families. My Dad was one of the oldest of twelve children and he left high school to get a job so he could help support his family.
In the 1960’s my grandfather suffered a number of strokes and was unable to walk. He weighed over 200 pounds and my grandmother wasn’t strong enough to move him. For ten years, my mother went to their home every night and put my grandfather to bed and each morning she got him up and dressed and sat him in his chair. Now my sister cares for my Dad who lives home alone and my Mom who lives in a nursing home.
I could list endless stories of family and friends who care for each other in time of need. I’m sure you have a list of your own caregivers.
Caregiving is complex. It demands us to be patient, strong, persistent, fearless and gentle. We are called on to be advocates, listeners, errand-runners and negotiators. At the same time we deal with our own feelings of guilt, failure, disappointment and fear. All while trying to take care of ourselves so we can care for others.
And yet in the midst of pain, fear and sorrow, the opportunity to be a caregiver is truly a gift. The time we spend with our loved ones is precious. There is an awareness of love that is amazingly profound. We experience an extraordinary deepening of faith.
Who cares? I do. And I know you do. We care because we love and we love because we care.
I absolutely know that God cares for us and loves us unconditionally. And just when we think we can’t face another day, God sends us a caregiver to give us a call or a hug or lend a helping hand.
“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 Praise God.