We have been caregivers. We may have asked ourselves—likely more than once—
    “Can I do this?”
    “Is it in me.?”

It has been one of the great challenges of our lives. We may have not sought it out, but we accepted it or even embraced it. There was considerable sacrifice.  We’ve devoted much time to this—time we planned to spend with mates, family or friends. There may have been a financial  burden as well.

Along the way, we have hurt in various ways. Just in witnessing the decline of our loved one. Adjusting to the changed relationship with them. A parent, for example, was likely less able to nurture or support us as they had previously. The parent became more childlike, and we more adult like. Family dynamics may have been strained.  We may have felt inadequately supported by other family members. We likely recognized that as the end approached we could not walk that last path with them.  At that final fork they traveled alone, and we could but watch and witness. We have experienced the void that comes with their passing.

Now is the time to affirm ourselves. We can recognize our contributions and caring.

We can do this in many ways.
1.    By taking pride in our efforts and accomplishments as caregivers!
2.    By experiencing the satisfaction of knowing that we were able to return some the nurture we received from our loved one!
3.    By appreciating and affirming the efforts of other caregivers such as medical staff, Hospice workers, personal care workers and family and friends.
4.    By letting go regrets that showed in thoughts like these:
    If only I had listened more.
    If only I had been there more often.
    If only I had said “I love you” more.

Our parent or loved one wouldn’t want us to harbor such feelings.
They would want us to live full rich lives.
They would want us to be good to ourselves

We have changed through our efforts and commitment.
We have learned things about giving, nurturing, communicating and managing.
With enhance confidence and self esteem, we are better prepared for the future needs of other loved ones.
We are better able to be examples and role models in our families.
We are emerging as stronger, more independent people.
This is a wish of parents for their children.

We caregivers are a special band of sisters and brothers!