As I write this, a precious friend is in a hospital room, miles from here, loving on her mother and holding her hand until time for her to go Home.

            I remember that time with Momma. We knew she was slipping away; she was frail and tired and ready to leave this old world for a better place.

            “Mommy, are you just tired? Are you ready to be with Jesus?” I smiled at her, gave her little tender kisses, wiped her wrinkled brow and assured her it was okay if she wanted to go.

           This was too hard; emotions struggled with truth as the child in me wanted to hang on and keep her here. She was my momma, my security through all these years; my lap to curl on, shoulder to cry on, a hug to depend upon.

            Her journey had been rough the last few years. Her ninety plus years had worn on her frail body; she looked tired—she was tired. It would be wrong to pull her back if I could, but it was difficult to let her go. I knew life would never be the same for me.

            I wonder, how is it with you? Are your family members ready to face that time that we each must face? Are you? There is much to think about and do when caring for someone; many things you need in place for yourself. I have found an exciting tool to keep all the necessary information for our entire family in one place, easy accessible to those who need it. This is not simply for end of life issues, but for every day needs as well. Click here to learn more.

            If you are a hired caregiver, do you know what to do for your client when that time comes; what your job demands, what is expected of you? Can you help the family in some way to be prepared for the inevitable?

            As you read this column today, please know that as I stopped to pray for my friend and her family, I also took time to pray for each of you who will be reading this. I prayed for God’s wisdom and peace in your life and those around you. I thanked Him for you as you give so willingly of yourself, your time, your resources to care for others. I thanked Him for the countless lives who have touched mine throughout the years, encouraging, teaching, leaving a mark.

            Have a great week. Let me hear from you,

Hugs,

P.S.  “I know the plans I have for you, saith the Lord, plans for good to give you a hope … ” from Jeremiah 29:11-13.