Tag: prayer

Reminding Myself about Self Care

My “spa” for the day. Sit in a comfortable chair, take long breathes and wait while the clothes are washing and drying Pause for a few minutes to pray and allow God to comfort you.

My husband called me at 4am because he had dropped his nurse call button and he needed help to go to the bathroom. I very gently spoke with him. He can’t see the clock and had no idea it was 4 am.

Sitting by the side of my superman has been tough. He has a sound mind, can eat and speak but has no control or feeling on one side. His periphial vision is compromised as well. He had found his cell phone on the tray by the bed and somehow managed to call with one good hand. He is one foot taller than me and still very strong even if he can’t control one leg amd arm yet. I need to be strong for him, so I find a quiet place to cry and pray while looking around our home wondering how to adjust.

I have to remind myself that he needs me so I have to sleep and eat right when I am not by his side at the rehab facility. We had tag teamed in caring for our parents. Now that is not possible. I am getting a full experience of what you spousal caregivers face.

A team of prayer warriors, neighbors, family and friends has gathered around us. Humbly and gratefully we are accepting their help. This is so hard to do when you are an independent person.

Some of the wonderful people who have attended the support group I lead have called to remind me of the advice I have given them. These moved me to tears.

I know this may seem like I am rambling and I most likely am. Sleep deprived and overloaded describes me best at the moment. I came on to say take care of yourself even if it is finding a comfortable chair and allowing God to hold you for a few moments.

Word for Today

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Phillipians 4:6-7

Song for Today

Prayer for Today

God,

I come humbled today. You are my strength. You are my shield. In all of this change and challenges, I trust you. Guard my heart and mind. Give me peace and wisdom.

Amen

Kitchen Table Talks

Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart.

Eleanor Roosevelt

The past week has been filled with old friends, new friends and family. Some of the days were carefully planned and others were unexpected occurances. Close freinds came for a brief visit of a few days. We hugged, shared meals, laughed and took them sightseeing in our area. One of them is struggling with his mother’s care. He goes to visit her often, but feels guilty that his sister is bearing most of the load. My husband and I listened and shared advice. Our hearts truly felt his pain.

On one of our adventures we met a couple who struck up a conversation. The lady voluntered that she had recently lost her mother to Alzheimer’s. She was generally surprised to learn that I lead a support group and wanted more information.

After our friends left, I heard a knock at the door. Our neighor had dropped by to escape his home for a few minutes. Tension was high and he needed to escape. His elderly mom has moved in with him and his wife works in a stressful job from home. That in itself may have some of you nodding your heads. We have all had days that we needed a little escape. Finding a safe place to do that can prove to be difficult. He felt safe enough that he found an excuse to drop by later in the week to let us know things were better.

Last night my brother-in-law came over for dinner. After eating, we settled in our family room to talk. Eventually, he had questions about dementia and wanted to know how to help a friend. He has experiece from dealing with his mom and was well aware that symtoms can vary.

You may find yourself interacting with a caregiver who needs a listening ear, word of encouragement, practical advice or prayer. These moments often happen in unexpected circumstances or times. Maybe you are the caregiver needing that for yourself. My prayer is that God continues to direct paths to cross on this journey. I know I have been in both positions and have been so fulfilled when friendships have developed along the way.

Have a blessed day and trust God to send someone your way to comfort you or for you to comfort.

Word for Today

Proverbs 17:17

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

Song for Today

Flashback song to make you smile

Prayer for Today

Dear God,

Thank you for always knowing how fragile I am at times and sending someone my way. Thank you for the friends I have made along the caregiving journey. Touch their hearts today as you have touched mine.

Amen