FOREWORD - Of Sorrow and Laughter
One would think there would abound inspiring poems, words of wisdom, prayers of inspiration, meaningful meditations and all manner of heartfelt efforts to specifically guide, strengthen and uplift those who care for family members with long term and debilitating illnesses. Or are there?
There are precious few books specifically for care givers of the chronically or terminally ill. Most that can be found tend to be overly long reads for those whose time for meeting their own needs is limited.
In this book, you, the care giver, will first find solace in a verse, poem or picture that affirms who you are and what you are facing. You will then experience another picture or aphorism that will lift you up for the tasks of the day.
The simplest advice is often the most powerful. Because it is so simple we often forget it. In essence, it comes down to “Seize the Moment,” to put aside your care giving chores and tend to your own cares and needs.
Open yourself up to that which is of God in yourself so that you will be better able to tend to the needs of the person in your care.
Long term and end of life care can be a holy, transforming experience. Without understanding and encouragement, it can be agonizing and debilitating. We offer this book to affirm and
encourage each care giver as they go through this life changing process.
For each challenge we will validate the strengths and graces everyone needs. Our hope is that through these words and images you will find peace and courage in knowing that on your loved one’s final homeward journey, you, the care giver will not feel alone.
Those who walk with the chronically or terminally ill know in their hearts that they do all they can for that loved one. Many who approach the end of this life enter a state of being that can only be called, “Translucent.” They know they have reached the ultimate goal and that their care giver’s faithful attendance to their needs reflect in a mutual fulfillment of their needs and of the care giver’s purpose.
