I have never met a caregiver who is perfect. We try. We make sacrifices. We give it our best shot. Then stress adds up. Exhaustion takes over. We get overwhelmed and then before we realize it, we simply fail. Our heart is broken and we feel guilty for losing our cool.
This is when we need to step aside and regroup. If it is possible, remove yourself from the room for a few moments. As you settle yourself, keep it mind that the one you are caring for may not even remember the event when you return.
We do not have the ability to remain loaded down with guilt. We must face the reality of our failure, learn from our mistakes, seek help if necessary and then forgive ourselves. Perhaps you can have one friend on standby who can talk and pray with you.
God gave us a beautiful example of forgiveness in Peter. Peter loved Jesus and was devoted to him. When life got complicated and fear set in, Peter lost it. He became angry and drew his sword when they came to arrest Jesus. He became frightened in the courtyard as he watched what was happening to Jesus. He became so frightened that he denied even knowing Jesus. He then fled and wept bitterly because of his shame and guilt.
The three long days that followed the cruxifiction of Jesus were filled with great sorrow and broken heartedness of his mother and friends. I can only imagine that Peter’s grief and guilt were suffocating. On the third day when news spread that Jesus had risen from the grave, Peter most likely had his joy overshadowed by fear and guilt.
Jesus greeted Peter warmly. He died for our forgiveness and Peter was transformed into a powerful minister after this forgiveness. God offers this same gift to you. Take time to recieve this and forgive yourself. God has a powerful ministry ahead of you as a caregiver and then later as a survivor who can encourage new caregivers.
Caregiving draws forth strength and courage. You will discover things about yourself on this journey. You will become patient, creative, compassionate, and kinder than you were before. You will also cherish the small pleasures of watching a sunset or listening to music. You will never take having time to sip a cup of coffee or tea for granted again.
The world is confusing all around us due to human decisions and demands. Your world inside your home can be confusing due to a disease that is ravaging someone’s mind through no decision or action of their own. That is the small world to focus your attention on. You are the light shining brightly as you dispense love each day. Those passing by living in the larger chaotic world will see a glimmer of the light you shine as it slips through the blinds. They long for the light you have.
Forgive yourself. Accept God’s amazing grace. Keep loving and letting your light shine. You have a beautiful heart. Keep moving forward.
Word for Today
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Light and Darkness, Sin and Forgiveness
This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.
Song for Today
Prayer for Today
Dear God,
Thank you for meeting us when we are weak. Give me forgiveness and let me feel your presence as I face trails and feel discouraged. You are my defender and ever present help. I praise you for always being with me.
Amen
Walking Them Home 