Gratitude

Today I went shopping for some type of goodies for the caregivers at the nursing facility that cared for my parents and my beloved aunt during the last days of their lives here on Planet Earth.  It isn't often that we hear about the love and concern showered on residents of these facilities.  However, my parents and my aunt were cared for by "angels" in human form.  Yes, there were many complaints from my mom, my dad, and my aunt during their experience but they were loved.  It is my opinion that the complaints came from their lack of independence after years of doing everything without any assistance.  The loss of dignity can snuff out even the brightest light of love.

I am certain that some facilities are lacking in compassion based on any number of reasons.  One facility that my aunt called home for a period of time wasn't that wonderful but there still were a few people there who cared and exhibited concern beyond that which was expected.

When my parents complained, I'd always remind them to be kind, to say thank you, to be concerned about their caregiver.  Most of the time, they were aware enough of what I was saying to be that kind, caring person I remembered from my childhood.  As a child I remember my parents being friendly to everyone.  The "hobo" walking down the train tracks next to our home would always be offered a sandwich.  The trash man would be given any coats we weren't using during a cold spell. The woman who was beaten and thrown out of a car in the middle of the night found a spot in our living room until the police arrived.

My aunt experienced some horrific tragedies in her life.  A son"left" her way too soon; a husband "left" too soon also.  Was she bitter?  Yes.  But within her was a heart of gold.  She could be harsh and critical but underneath it all was a woman who would give you anything you needed.

Every time I walked through the doors to visit one of my parents or my aunt, I would be sure to hunt out the nurse or aide on duty and to thank them for their caring.  Some people might say this is "sucking up."  To me, it was being mindful of the challenges they experienced every day as they cared for my loved ones.

I truly believe you get what you give out. Many of us tend to be overly critical.  We get upset when the checker at the grocery store doesn't smile.  Did we smile first?  Did we say "Hi" first?  Maybe; maybe not. Sure we will encounter those who are unhappy and nothing we can do will make them happy or civil.  The trick is to rise above their negativity and remain centered in Peace and Love.  Easy?  Not always.

At the end of a year, we begin our list of resolutions.  This New Year of 2013 is no different.  We will make resolutions; we will break resolutions.  I wonder what this world would be like if we all lived by just one:

The Golden Rule:  Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Similar statements are found in all World Religions and various philosophies.  A list of these can be found at http://www.unification.net/ws/theme015.htm.

In case you are wondering what my New Year's Resolution is this 2013......

Alyda & John
My Mom and Dad
(age 30)

and

A Huge Thank You to All Caregivers!

You are Appreciated!

My Aunt Ann
(age 92)