CAREGIVER’S YEAR IN REVIEW
In my previous life, you know before I became a Caregiver, I had a year-end tradition. Put simply, I would note the achievements of the past year and set goals for the upcoming year.
Well at the end of last year, I had finally come to terms with the fact that I am now a Caregiver. That realization was so shocking that I was not mentally in a position to think of anything that remotely resembled a resolution or an upcoming plan for the year.
I was Thankful that I had indeed survived the year.
Therefore, this year opened with my newfound knowledge of my current position and began without the pressure of any goals, objectives, or active plans.
Today, I am allowing myself to look back on the past year and positively reflect on all that I have accomplished in this Caregiving role.
I continue to do “The Little Things” that I know make a huge difference in my Mother’s life. And although I may be annoyed by each and every little thing, I have come to realize their ultimate value.
I have learned to adapt to a television that blasts “All Night Long,” by wearing earbuds which drown out some of the noise volume on the TV but not my Mom.
And although I still don’t seem to be able to purchase the correct brand of Raisin Bran (very perplexing as there are only two), I have made the “Grocery Store” an endurable activity.
I still often leave the house in tears; however now while gratefully accepting the “Hugs” from strangers that give me strength.
I have been diligent in consistently posting Blog entries and I created a Podcast. The Blog and the Podcast are essential elements in my Writing career, helping me to remember that I am really a Writer fulfilling caregiving duties at the moment.
I have made a Caregiver’s Connection with multiple people who are grateful for “A Caregiver’s Conscience,” and are encouraging in my desire to “tell the others.”
This past year, I haven’t achieved any outrageous sales goals, produced major presentations, saved any accounts, acquired any new clients, or been rewarded in my efforts to achieve any corporate goals. All treasured accomplishments in prior years which I remember fondly.
However, I am ending this year with the absolute knowledge that “my Mother is doing just fine—because she is well taken care of.”
As a Caregiver, I have given a level of care that although not appreciated by my Mom, is admired by others. This past year has in fact been extremely productive, provided a valuable learning experience and showed me many different expressions of love.
As for developing a Plan for the upcoming year, the overall theme is finding a way to live my life with or without the pressure of being a Caregiver. I want to do more than just survive.
In this next year, “I Want 2 Live!”
So ends my Year-end Report to the Board of Caregivers.
“A CAREGIVER’S CONSCIENCE – THE PODCAST”
A Caregiver’s Conscience – YouTube
” A CAREGIVER’S CONSCIENCE”
May God Continue to give you the strength, to do what you do!
Thanks Be 2 God and You!