Caregiver Hope: Yearning for Greener Grass?
Help, I’m drowning!
“…is your life full of difficulties and temptations? Then be happy, for when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow…when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete.” (James 1:2-4, TLB)
Okay, so I admit it! I can almost see your expression as you read that verse. Your thoughts are running something like this:
“Hey, lady! The first part is correct. My life IS full of difficulties and temptations; and you don’t know the half of it. I’m at my wits end and no help in sight. You really expect me to find a blessing? And top that off by being happy?”
This week’s drastic weather changes have added to the daily stress of caring for family and others. Here in the Ozarks we can literally wade in our back yard and might consider building a boat. On the other hand, some of my readers would pay a big price to get a few drops of precious rain on their parched lands.
Some days are just plain too long!
I recall those days when the only blessing I could envision was my bed at night; that is, if I thought I would be able to muster the strength to get into it. Through the years I learned the value of identifying at least one blessing before I went to bed. Maybe my blessing was simply surviving another day. As time went on, a blessing might be remembering a soft smile when I kissed a cheek. Sometimes it was simply the smell of freshness on that last load of laundry for the day.
Close your eyes for even two minutes–yes, just TWO minutes! Sit up straight, breathe deeply and exhale slowly. Relax. Thank the Lord that He has promised never to leave you or forsake you. Thank Him for fresh air and freedoms and abilities to help others. Thank Him for His blessings.
News Flash: For You!
By the way, did you know that YOU are one of His blessings? Yes, you are!
As we continue this journey together, I trust I will be an encouragement to you; just a nudge to let you know you are not in this alone. Be assured I have prayed for each person reading this including you. Thank you for caring and sharing.
For more encouragement and practical help, consider working through the discussion guides in the second edition of MY MOTHER MY CHILD with a friend or family. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Hugs,
Feel free to share this trailer with others who have not yet read MY MOTHER MY CHILD. Thanks.
I have seen these cows all my life and now I know what God was trying to tell me. Things are NOT better on the other side. Stay with the Father, who give us the good life.
Love you, Both
June
I also read a exert from a book that says we need to empty our bucket sometimes so we can fill it up again. We need to give away what He has given and go back to the Well.
Thanks, June, for the comments!
Seems we each have much to learn in this thing called life. Isn’t it great to have a Guide and Helper?
It is true, however, that some days do seem terribly long and we find it difficult to look up. Thankful for good friends who hold our hands along the way.
Have a blessed day and thanks for the comments.
Hugs, Susie