Saluting Courageous Caregivers

365 Messages of Hope, Humor & Heart for Caregivers – #7

I was inspired when I heard Dr. Maya Angelou speak at a conference shortly before her death. She said, “Courage is the most important of all virtues.” She went on to say that we make decisions to be kind, loving, and generous. We can do those things most of the time, but it takes a tremendous and ongoing commitment to be courageous.

Throughout the history of our country men and women have been courageous as they have defended our freedom. Sometimes courageous people recognized and rewarded. When that happens we should all celebrate their accomplishments and success.

It’s unusual for a caregiver to receive a reward. However, I can’t think of anything that takes more courage than getting up every morning knowing that the day ahead is going to be filled with the unglamorous tasks of tending to the needs of those who cannot care for themselves. Courage alone won’t do it.

It takes commitment, conviction and compassion. It takes strength of character and a willingness to do the right thing even when it isn’t easy, fun, or even appreciated.

On this 4th of July, I salute our founding fathers, all of the people who have sacrificed their comfort and safety to insure our continuing freedom, and every caregiver who has the courage to fluff the pillow, wipe the brow, change the Depend, fix the meals, dole out the medication, get the car repaired, pay the bills, shop for groceries, fix the meals, drive to doctors’ appointments, pull up the socks, and do whatever else has to be done every single day.

Happy 4th of July!