I have several friends and family members who have lived their lives accommodating loved ones with considerable health needs. While I've done that for short stints, I've never had to do it for a long time. Recently, however, a loved one has reached a stage where she needs considerable care. How will we react to this?
First, I must say that this reality has made me think a lot of those friends and family members who have devoted their lives to loved ones with considerable health considerations. As I think of this, I am thankul for the public supports that exist and want to advocate to better those supports for families that face this. It is not easy to do this, and it requires considerable sacrifice, time, energy, love, and creativity to do it well.
Next, I want to learn all I can about doing this well--how can I be the best possible support and what is my role in this endeavor? As my family has faced this new reality, we have all been doing what we can to help each other and our loved one. I am learning how to be a good team member with an endeavor like this. The greatest challenge is the novelty of it all--we've not walked this road before and there's a lot to learn. Fortunately everyone has the same goal which is our loved one's good care and comfort.
At this time in my life and society, more than ever, I want us to be more concerned with service to one another--what can we do to uplift lives everywhere in our country in ways that are hones, helpful, loving, and good? I believe we can build a stronger, better country with greater service to one another. That vision excites me, challenges me, and brings me promise. Onward.