Bright
May 1 2012 in Denise's Blog, Weekly Comforts by Denise
Kenosha lighthouse at night (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
At first, it feels like a few flickers, like what happens to lights during a terrible storm. It’s a lessening of who you were.
Then, it feels like the lights just go out and you’re no longer who you used to be. Caregiving can dim your bright light before you know it. You feel like you disappear, lost in a sea of misplaced hopes and dreams.
Your light begins to shine again when you connect with a lighthouse–another family caregiver. A fellow family caregiver understands what it’s like to swim in the sea, seemingly watching your hopes and dreams float away. Another who understands shines his bright beams on you, offering a glow of support and acceptance that soaks into your soul.
The connection you create with another family caregiver is like bright beams from a lighthouse, guiding you home. You can see the shore. You can see that you shine in the rays of your lighthouse
And, just as another shines for you, you shine for others. You become another’s lighthouse when you show them the way to find new hopes and dreams along the shore.
Resources
- Love our comforts? Then you’ll love our books, Take Comfort and Take Comfort, Too. Buy here.
- Would you rather listen than read? Buy Take Comfort, the CD set, here.
- Connect with other family caregivers in our online support groups.
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G-J said on May 1, 2012
I love this, Denise! The other caregivers here really are my lighthouses. Thank you all for helping my light shine!
ejourneys said on May 2, 2012
Ditto to G-J. Together, we produce a lot of candle power! You all have helped me through dark days.
Bette said on May 2, 2012
Hi Denise,
Thank you so much for “Bright”.
It seems as though our needs change – sometimes daily. I’m so grateful for you and each person here who help me make sense of those changing needs. Thank you for reminding me of the importance of self and remembering who that is and what that person likes and enjoys.
You continue to provide such insight, wisdom and comfort to each of us.
I love this lighthouse. It feels as though you can walk (or swim) right to it (:
Jan said on May 3, 2012
This place is the best lighthouse! Truly a beacon in the storm.