Well, this is what happened with my mother-in-law today. You see, she is a stroke survivor. It's been 7 years since she had her stroke. After coming home to rehab in our home for a short while, she made a complete recovery, minus some of her peripheral vision. She returned to living in her own home and even cared for her dying husband. Her recovery seemed nothing short of amazing! A few weeks ago, she had a heart episode. Her advanced age of 85 is now slowing her down and so she has come to live with us again.
Today she cried, not because she was having a hot dog, but because of what the hot dog represented- the happy times and memories in her life. The happy times when there would be a picnic with loved ones, friends, brethren all around, laughing, joking, talking, encouraging.
I can't imagine what it would feel like to have to give up your independence, to rely on someone else for everything, to give up living in your home. I know she has gone through several emotions in the last few weeks. Bless her heart, she is so thankful for the smallest things. When I bring her food or help her put on her socks, she tells me over and over again thank you for caring enough about me to help me. She has told me time and again if it wasn't for her son (my husband) she wouldn't even be alive. Seeing this attitude on a daily basis really makes you think.......think about what is important in life. Shopping and clothes are fun......but people are what make life worth living.....and people are what TEACH you what life is really about.
Right after the stroke with our boys. The kids gave her a reason to live, to know who she was and her importance in their life.
During her 3 month rehab stay where we would visit each day. These 3 kids were a huge part of her recovery.
A few years ago with our oldest.
Never underestimate your importance in the lives of others. Your love and caring may be what makes all the difference.
Peggy, this is so moving and resonates with me as someone whose grandma lived with us for years. How selfless and loving...your family has such a largeness of spirit! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Caroline! How wonderful you got to have your Gma with you - I'm sure it made great memories!
DeleteHow loving and patient you are Peggy! Thank you for sharing such a beautiful reminder of what's really important in life. If I'm blessed to live until I'm 85, I might just cry at a hotdog too. But I do know that I'll have had so much to be thankful for in my life. :)
ReplyDeleteBless you!!
Thanks Misty - you are making so many wonderful memories for your children! I'm sure they will all stand in line to take care of you!
DeleteWhat a blessing to be able to care for your mother-in-law! I'm sure this time with her will bring you both much joy.
ReplyDeleteIt's true, you gain so much during these times Melissa- thanks for commenting!
DeleteI needed this today!
ReplyDeleteGetting caught up with holiday shopping...well, lack there of. Stressing about what needs to be done.
You are so right! Need to focus on precious time spent with family AND, with a grateful heart.
Thanks for the reminder!
Jeannie
Jeannie- thank you for taking the time to comment. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season with your family!
DeleteWhat a beautiful post about your MIL Peggy. It must be so difficult to arrive at a stage of life where you need help and care-giving. Relinquishing independence, decision making, control. I am happy that your mother-in-law has such beautiful memories to cherish. Thank you for caring for her and putting yourself in her shoes, recognizing the challenges she faces at this stage in her life. Hugs.
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