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Sometimes God uses events to shape and change us. I won't blame God for this, but I am profoundly changed by what occurred this morning. Our next door neighbor's Adult Foster Care Facility was completely devastated by fire this morning. Thank God all 8 people + 2 dogs got out alive. Thank God no one was seriously hurt. A firefighter's shoulder was hurt when a ceiling collapsed on him. The challenged elderly residents had been practicing fire drills recently, and each were brought out safely. Thank God.

I complain about my circumstances, at times, as you all know. But today, I think I will not complain at all. I thank God no one was hurt and lives were spared. I thank God my home and husband and son did not perish. I thank God I did not move my Mom into that situation. I think I'll think about this every time I look out my windows, walk or drive by. And when I want to complain about something, I think I'll just count my blessings, instead. I pray you'll count your blessings, today, as well. And while you're at it, please pray for those in need, including your own, thanking God for all the good he gives you each day.

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Little things, I just walked outside, I do that alot. I work at a help desk and it is stressful, so I walk away every couple of hours to get a breathe of fresh air. I have Osteoporosis and Rheumetoid Arthritis but am thankful I have a wonderful doctor who gives me something for pain and I can walk. I am thankful for the fresh breeze, the trees swaying to Gods breeze making a song of leaves. I am thankful for the sun today, yesterday I was thankful for the rain. I am thankful I can take my mother to dfacs today to make sure she gets her 46.00 a month food stamps. Although I find it funny that anyone is expected to live on 46.00 worth of food a month. so what would she do without me. I am thankful I am a very strong capable person. Those trials have diciplined me to be so. I just opened a door as I was coming in for a person with her hands full she said thank you. I am thankful she was appreciative. I am thankful no one was hurt last night and that all lives are intact. I am thankful in this economy I have this job although sometimes I wonder about it. I am thankful I have Jesus in my heart so he can interpret what I need to say to God even tho I do not have the words. I am thankful I can think straight in a crisis and have common sense to rely on when things go awry, able to go to plan B or C on the turn of a dime. There are lots of things I wish I could change in my family but I am only one. I can only pray about them and hope that God finds me upright and smiles on me. I am thankful to be me, as I look around me and see those in my family that are so ignorant (do not understand) or don't want to understand or just don't care because I do care and I do understand and I am Thankful! Finally I sometimes get depressed because I feel so alone in this world but I like spending time with me even tho others don't. I know who I am and so does God.
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Great thread Anne! Thank God everyone did get out alive at that facility. What a gift!!

For many of you know their are such extreme difficulties between my mother and I that have been lifelong. What I am grateful for is the stubbornness she taught me and the covering by God to be in their family (I'm adopted). It is by no accident that my father was a Godly man (although far from perfect). I can look back and say God took every wrong in my life and has made it right.

But the being so stubborn has been used for "good" not "evil" in my life. I have used that stubbornness to get through trials, lessons God wants to teach me, and a marriage I know will make it. I use it to take a stand for what is right and true. That is something I can never trade or never appreciate enough! Thank you God and mom at least for that blessing.

I could go on and on, but we'll let other reiterate what I already know deep down. Thanks Anne!
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Dear Neon and Mitzi, thank you for contributing to this thread, and to my life. I am the richer for knowing both of you. You both add so much to so many lives on these threads, encouraging, uplifting, and loving others, and crying with them when needed
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Wow caregivers!  I love your posts.  I always count my blessings everyday, for I know that things can always be much worse than we could ever imagine.  I count my blessings also that we have all found this site, and can share this time in our lives with others and learn from one another.  "I can look back and say God took every wrong in my life and has made it right", mitzi that is very true, when we have faith, he takes the "wrongs" and turns them into "rights". There is always something good that comes from something bad. God Bless you all, and have a great week, it's going to be a long one. Let's just count our blessings that it won't be longer LOL.
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Maybe I should have my 12yr old daughter read these posts. I told her this morning that she needs to spend less time on her laptop, and tv, and spend more time studying so she can pass 7th grade. She got mad at me and said that I spend all day on the computer, and ignore her. I said how would you know, you are at school all day. She said well, you spend all weekend on the computer. I said no I don't I spend most of it cleaning crap off the toilet seat, and lately trying to fill out forms. She said well you ignore me. She forgets all the things I do for her but remembers what I haven't done for her lately. She should count her blessings she still has me LOL.
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Dear sweet Naus, sounds like she's crying out for you. Hug her tight. Don't want to lose your baby to the "machine." I feel like I neglect my son, with hubby filling in huge gaps. He comes and brings me drawings and jokes. Won't last long...he's even talked to me about "turning off the Internet." So I'm preachin' at myself, too. She probably won't understand and appreciate this site like you do, due to a limited perspective and experience. Daughter needs you more than anyone or anything else. If you lose her, you've lost too much. You'll get the paperwork done in snatches. But she'll grow in leaps and bounds and won't wait around. NO one can replace mommy for your daughter. Go.............! (We'll wait for you, friend.)
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OK, I have another blessing: Called my Mom, and she is in a good mood. Bout to fall off my chair. Praise the Lord! Think I'll shout! That's a huge blessing!!!
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Thanks Anne, I am very close with my littlest baby. I adore her, and her sense of humor, and ability to lift me up when I'm feeling down. She is a blessing! I think she was trying to take her own guilt (of not following through on her responsibilities) and place it back on me. I'm familiar with that, we are all guilty of that. I brought the dog I adopted from my oldest daughter with me in the car to pick her up from school today. She loves it. This little dog has be therapeutic to us all, little fluff puff she is. I think my husband finally caved in and decided not to kick the dog out, since I have had her for almost two months now. Although, if the dog makes one wrong move, she will be toast. He won't admit he likes her, but he talks to her and plays fetch with her. I guess that's a small blessing LOL. Back to work, talk to you dear friends later.
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I'm looking forward to more people posting blessings. Though, I didn't start out that way. When one is hurting, they look for relief, and for someone to commiserate with. The "Blessing" thread just may not stand to those in pain, unless they know to look and find comfort there...which gives me another idea...
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Dear Naus, yes, that your husband plays with your dog is a blessing, since he wasn't too keen on the idea at first, if I remember correctly!? Those wonderful little creatures have a way of pulling at our heart strings, don't they? I love that you still call your daughter your "baby." (Talk about heart strings...) so precious! Thanks for sharing your blessings. Here's praying you have a very blessed day! Love you, my fellow Care-giving, online friend!
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Naus, if your daughter was to read this thread, I want to tell her something, if you don't mind.

Dear young lady, I have a feeling that you are probably very special. I can practically almost confidently say that, because I have come to admire your MaMa. Your Mom is a very special lady, and an asset to those of us here at agingcare.com. She has given sacrificially (as you know) of her time, attention and life to be a blessing to family, fellow caregivers, and probably others. She has provided a lift in the day of struggling souls, encouragement to the hurting and weary, and love to strangers. She is an example of Christ's love for the world. I pray you honor your Mother, not just on Mother's Day, but every single moment for the rest of your life. You have been blessed of God to have a nurturing, loving Mom, who wants you to mature and thrive and blossom, using God's gifts to go on and be a blessing to others. Your Mom has a giving and humble heart, and often puts others before herself. While no person on earth is perfect, she is a wonderful example of Christ's love for his people. I pray you show honor your Mother, rise up and call her blessed. That's been my observation, and personal opinion. I also want to thank your Mom for her compassion, humor and for being a blessing in my life. Thank you, Naus!
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I just got a blessing. My sister is driving from Illinois to lower Michigan to help move our Mother to Northern Michigan this weekend. She'll get to see Dad, who she last saw on Thanksgiving (declining and confined with Advanced Stage Alzheimer's). My sis and Mom will get to see Mom's new apartment for the first time, and we'll be able to bless her for a unique Mother's Day. I pray all goes well...
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thats fabulous Anne, so happy for you and your sister and your Mom , It will go well. I had to find something to do for Mothers day so I am taking pictures of the mother daughter tea that will take place Sat from 9 to 1 to benefit the harmony house for abused children. Thats my passion so volunteer, volunteer and volunteer some more, thats what I do best. I will however, give my mother a card with a few dollars in it, If I buy something she will just put it down and not putting myselft thru that. My son is with his inlaws so thats the way the cookie crumbles he did call me today to ask me if I wanted to go and I said well when the subject was brought up I was told I could go but I would have to get my own place and I don't have the money so found something to do and told him he said they had rented a cottage and I could have went with them I said well, I am a planner not a last minute person and if that was the case why wasn't I told last week when i brought the subject up. But I am committed now so have fun. see ya when you get back.

you all have a good mothers day
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Thank you Neon. I'm glad you have a passion, which is a blessing to many, no doubt. I am praying it is a good Mother's Day for you and your Mom, no matter how you choose to celebrate.

I just got a call about a possible home for my Mom's beloved dog, Angel. I called the lady who is willing and enthusiastic. She lives down near Mom's current home, with no children, so is willing to adopt Angel to be her "baby." She works for an Assisted Living Facility, and has already obtained permission to take Angel alone to work with her every day. Sounds like a perfect for our almost everyone! Now that's a blessing! (Thank you, Lord!) When we drive down to Mom's we'll meet with this lady and her husband tomorrow night. She's eager and excited. We're praying that Mom will take this well. So God is always right on time...and that is a blessing, as well.
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SOMETHING TO SHARE WITH ALL OF YOU :

When I say... "I am a Christian", I'm not shouting, "I'm clean living," I'm whispering, "I was lost. Now I'm found and forgiven"

When I say... "I am a Christian" I don't speak of this with pride, I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not trying to be strong. I'm professing that I'm weak and need His strength to carry on.

When I say... I am a Christian" I'm not bragging of success, I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess."

When I say... " I am a Christian" I'm not claiming to be perfect, My flaws are far too visible, But God believes I'm worth it.

To all of you who are caregivers, Happy (Mothers = Caregivers Day) to you. May God watch over and protect you and yours and may your hearts be open to receive all the blessings God has in store for you.
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That was beautiful! Thank you, Neon. May God bless you richly this Mother's Day!
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Amazing Grace What a thread! To all you courageous caregivers out there:
Happy mothers day! Hugs to all. May GOD continue to bless you! Jerome.
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My blessing is all of you dear friends those who were there when I found this site and all of those who joined on through out the year you have made my life complete it is amazing with all your hardships you are able to give comfort to those who need nuturting at that time God bless you all and thank you for keeping me sane amd realizing I have power to change what needs to be changed for my good at times and that I do not have to be a doormat as in the past-I will write on my wall for my update.
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I ADMIRE AND ENVY ALL OF YOU THAT POSTED A COMMENT TO ANNE'S THREAD. I WILL SAY I AM THANKFUL THAT SO FAR I AM HEALTHY PHYSICALLY SO I CAN CONTINUE TO TAKE CARE OF BOTH MY PARENTS AND MY HUSBAND. I HAVE LOST THAT SPIRITUAL HOPE AND FAITH THAT YOU ALL SEEM TO HAVE. I KNOW HOW IMPORTANT IT IS TO HAVE IT, BUT I HAVE BEEN HURT SO MANY TIMES IN MY LIFE BY THE PEOPLE I LOVE THE MOST, AND NOW I TOOK THIS RESPONSIBILITY ON. YOUR RIGHT, I JUST CARED, AND WAS DOING, WHAT I THOUGHT WAS THE RIGHT THING. I GET ANGRY AT MYSELF WHEN I HEAR ABOUT PEOPLE THAT HAVE FAR LESS, AND WORSE OFF THAN ME, AND I DARE COMPLAIN. YOU ARE AMAZING, ALL OF YOU, MAYBE YOU CAN HELP ME GET THAT BACK. I HAVE BECOME HARD, AND CYNICLE. I AM NOT THE PERSON I ONCE WAS, AND I MISS HER SO MUCH. I REALLY LIKED HER. I DO NOT LIKE THE PERSON I HAVE BECOME, AN EMOTIONAL WRECK. I HAVE BEEN CALLED A MARTYR, AND NAMES SUCH AS THAT. I NEVER FELT I WAS THAT. I JUST CARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! IS THERE SOMETHING WRONG WITH THAT. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.
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Peace 2 there are so many here that are so knowable about faith and the word of God it is important to carry all our problems and cares to God I find the easiess place to pray is when I am out walking on our bike trail I feel closer to God when I am out among his trees and nature but others here are so good about what the Bible says but I know he cares about his people you will get your faith back just let others help you and you will get lots of help from the dear people here on this site- we all have problems and are glad to help so use this site and you will find in time you will be able to contribute to others peace of mind.
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Peace2, don't get angry at yourself. I think I saw MindingOurElders on another post who said it best "Three generations in a home happened a lot decades ago. But people didn't live on to be severely demented and create an abusive atmosphere for grandchildren (let alone the adult child - or in the case of Jamiea - adult grandchild and great-grandchildren). They died of some disease before that happened."

You are doing the best you can and do not worry about what others do. Each situation is unique. The beauty of how some of us have learned to rely on God is being right where we are at. God always meets us right where we are at. You don't have to "be" spiritual or "be" something you are not.

Again, don't be afraid of setting boundaries for yourself and those around you. It will help you find "you" again. We get so lost in providing for others that we do more damage to us and I truly believe that is why the statistics for caregivers dying first is so high.

Don't stop loving those you care for, but realize your limitations as well. Thank God for the agencies and people that do care and are now available to assist us in caring for our loved ones. God gave you a gift to care and it is one that is not easily learned or balanced. Do your best and hold your head high that you do it every day to the best of your ability.
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Peace2

Look at what you said honey, all the people have hurt you and let you down that is why you are cynical, so am I. I do not rely on anyone for my validation anymore because they are incapable of giving it. Its called the me syndrome. But.... God has not let you down he is always right there, talk to him, give over to him what you feel you can not deal with. He is your father he wants a relationship with you You cannot have that relationship if you don't talk to Him. He may not answer you at first but He will in His time. All fathers discipline their children especially when they love them and He Does Love You! and so do we We are all in this together that is why we formed this band of caregivers connection to help each other.

Just a quick note, I worked as a photographer this week end taking pictures of a mother daughter tea so I would not be lonely. My son was out of town with his inlaws and my mother no matter how I tried with cards and gifts chose to spend the day in her room. Will not go out to eat will not do anything normal people do and if yu say something toher its I've been sick or its all my fault so the only person I have to turn to is God. My husband is on the road all the time so no time there and when he is home he has his things to do for his job and nascar and that makes him happy Its a very boring and unhappy life for me as I am a people person so both being born in November and no offense to anyone else born in that month but ... those November people can just sit home by themselves I am going to find some way to go to the places I want even if it is alone.

It is so hard to live in this world when you want to be spiritual and on another thread Naus said you don't have to be spiritual sorry Naus, yes you do if you want your soul to go to heaven than you must be spirtual you must walk the same path as Jesus. I hope this has helped you Peace 2 and I hope this helps you find Peace to. Love Neon
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Anne's story was a real eye-opener. We all have problems, but our attitudes often need adjusting (at least mine does) as to how to view things. I had made a quick run to the bank awhile back, to deposit a check I badly needed. I have a son with many medical issues, and was thinking about that. Then, I stopped and waited while a school bus unloaded a tiny girl - in a wheel chair.

The lesson wasn't lost on me. After the elderly driver closed up the ramp, and slogged through the snow to go around the bus and get in, I followed, teary eyed, thinking wow, I needed that. This girl may not have my son's problems, but she and her family surely have a hard road to trudge. Not all problems are visible to others, but this little girl's major problem was there for all to see. She will be a blessing to many, I hope. I said a prayer to her family, adjusted my attitude and counted my many blessings as I drove on.
Carol
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Ladies and gentlemen, it is such a pleasure to hear your stories of hope and inspiration. Carol, thank you for sharing that wonderful story. We all need an attitude adjustment from time to time. I'm praying no one needs to be adjusted because of mine. When I get up in the morning, I want to smile at the loving husband God gave and who is so supportive of me and all I do. I want to hug and kiss my wonderful God-loaned eight year old son, who should be getting all my attention, but instead, is learning how to care for parents and grandparents. I pray he learns his lessons well.

I've concluded that life is all about relationships. Ours with our Maker, our parents whom God selected, our siblings, neighbors, and those in our path. How we treat each other does make a difference, even into eternity. We are servants, and how we touch the lives of others may make a difference we can't see today. Let's be an encouragement to someone today. May God bless you on your journey.
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GOOD MORNING TO ALL. I HAVE READ SO MANY POSTS, AND MY EYES ARE OPENED FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE. I HAVE BEEN LIVING IN A FANTASY WORLD FOR SO LONG. LIFE IS NOT THAT WAY, AND I AM NOW REALIZING THAT. THE STORIES ARE HARD FOR ME TO BELIEVE THAN HUMAN BEINGS CAN BE SO UNKIND, AND UNCARING. I SEE NOW, I HAVE AN EVEN LONGER ROAD AHEAD OF ME. I BELIEVE THAT I HAVE NOT EVEN BEGUN TO SEE WHAT I AM HEADED FOR IN REFERENCE TO MY SIBLINGS. GOD HAVE MERCY ON THEM, FOR THEY WILL ONE DAY HAVE TO ANSWER FOR THEIR ACTIONS. MAY YOU ALL HAVE THE BEST DAY THAT YOU CAN. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU, FOR THERE ARE SO FEW OF US WHO ARE WILLING TO GIVE UP OUR LIVES, SANITY, AND HAPPINESS.
KATHY
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Hello Kathy, sometimes we have rude awakenings. I feel like Chicken Little who is growing up. And, yes there are angel caregivers who've attained hero status while giving of themselves to others. We can lead and love by example, and pray for those who don't understand. It's personal choice, and you have chosen to be a loving, caring helper. Praying for your comfort, peace and rest. It is difficult at times, but there are many blessings as well. Just think, we are not blind anymore, and we can grow and learn in the process. We mature, and can then teach others. Give yourself a break, and accept some praise for doing the right thing. Even if your siblings "don't get it," you do, and will be rewarded accordingly, someday. So nice finally catch up and "talk" with you.
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Dear Mitzi and Neon, long time no chat. Hope all is well with you! I've missed reading your posts. Take care, ladies, and have a great day. Write if you can. Love to hear your blessings, as you have been such an inspiration and blessing to many. Thanks, A
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was a bad week end groping for inspiration and trying really hard to hold back the tears and drop the depression, mother is such a negative person and is never satified with anything I do although I am the only one that does anything.
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Dear Neon, I'm glad you can vent, and have a place for it. You are loved and appreciated by many, as you have been an inspiration to us. Know we are praying for you, and this, too shall pass. You're not alone, because many of us struggle like that. I'm praying me counting my blessings will help my Mom see some of hers, as she struggles with being negative, as well. But I am going to focus on the positive, and thank God today the sun is shining. I'll pray he sends some sunshine to your heart and lift your spirits today. The Comforter is just waiting to do that for you. Know we're praying for you, dear. Take care. A
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thank you Anne and everyone else, I need all the prayers I can get. I just ran home to let the poor dogs out poor things had their legs crossed, folded a load of jeans, put another load in the dryer started another load of laundry, emptied the dishwasher threw some food in a bag let the dogs back in and back at work all in less than 30 min. I can't even rely on her to let the dogs out or give them water or anything and she is perfectly capable ofdoing those things, she just stands around asking stupid questions why did the dog take off his choker Its too big he must not have liked it haha ITS TOO BIG well dogs are smarter than some humans AMEN he must not have liked that one ITS TOO BIG see what I have to work with now back to work LOL
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