Often when we think of care giving, we think of one person doing the giving and the “patient” doing all of the taking. Actually this is not healthy for either people. The one who is doing all of the giving feels overwhelmed and unappreciated. The person being cared for feels guilty for putting their spouse or child through the experience. They feel the loss of their independence and self-esteem. There is a better way.

CARE GIVER, CARE PARTNER, CARE SHARER.

Whether you are caring for a parent, a spouse or a friend, there are new ways to describe yourself. These new terms can help you to see, that in reality one person does not give while the other takes. Together you are a team, each playing your role. In the book titled Learning To Speak Alzheimer’s, the author Ms. Koenig Coste says, “We are care partners together seeking creative solutions to the challenges we face.” See how many creative solutions you can discover, and I guarantee you will find beautiful gifts in the experience.  “As a Care Partner I am the love of God in action.”

Do you love to collect quotes?  I do.  Today I share some of my favorites.  Cut them out; paste them on your mirror or in your journal. 

“You can love other people only to the degree that you’ve come to love and accept yourself.”  Shakti Gawain

“Work as if you don’t need the money/Dance as if no one is looking/Love as if you have never been hurt.  Anonymous

“Your life is not a problem to be solved, but a gift to be opened.”  Wayne Muller author of How Then Shall I Live.

“There is no cure for birth or death save to enjoy the interval.”  George Santayana

“Patience makes lighter what sorrow may not heal.”  Horace

Touch of ^_Joy

Did you see Chico’s latest catalog?  In it they announced the winner of their Top Dog contest, and the winner is …. Jacqueline Pipta and Sam.  “Sam taught me to live more in the moment.  His truths:  if you are hungry, eat; if your are bored, change activities; are tired, sleep; are happy, smile and wag.  When you feel love, kiss and hug; feel angry speak up; feel lethargic change acitivities.  working with him showed me when anger or fear are present, face it with courage.  And, finally a commitment to yourself and to others must be acted upon.”

These are lessons for everyone, especially caregivers.  Live in the moment, for really, that’s all there is.

Touch of JOY