Kira writes:
(...) there is a difference between generosity and giving. Generosity is free of obligations; it opens the heart, and creates warmth and connection between the giver and receiver. (...) Look back at the last year and consider: how did generosity open your heart? How can you cultivate generosity in the coming year?I like to think of myself as generous, compassionate and loving person. Countless times I went out of my way to help someone without thinking of a reward or expecting one. Last year I'd open my door to my MIL who was diagnosed with Alzheimer. She lived on her own, coping with the disease, depressed by the symptoms, lonely and abandoned in some way. Since Mom lived over three thousand miles away we were not aware of the situation until things got more obvious. Some day I will write a book - her story is a very disturbing one where her younger son is responsible for her depression, frustration and loneliness. It seems like he cares only about preserving his inheritance (and get most of it) not Mom's well being. But that's a story for another time. Now Mom lives with us and, believe it or not, her health has improved! And do not get me wrong - I'm not an angel, I do have moments when I 'explode', when I get angry and discouraged, but those moments do not last long and I'm working on my 'moments of uncontrolled behavior'.
So long my friends,
Evalina
A sweet post, my dad had alzheimers a few years ago and it's not easy to live with , I didn't know my dad had it at first , but after the signs were there , it was two long hard years . Lots of ups and downs . My poor dad had it real bad bless him in the end the doctor had him moved into a home , he would wonder so had to be in a locked home , such a sad time for all, he is now at rest bless him not a nice end to a good life.
ReplyDeleteTake care Evalina enjoy your Christmas .
Sending you big hugs dear xx
ReplyDeleteI can certainly believe it that someone's health can improve when they're surrounded by love. I admire you for giving love where her own son did not and it's great that you're taking the time to appreciate yourself for your generosity.
ReplyDeleteLovely honest post...we all have our moments you are not alone.
ReplyDeleteI wish more people were like you. Lovely. Yes we do have our moments. We are human. But you are obviously a caring person filled with love and that trumps those bad days we have. :)
ReplyDeletebeen there, done that. my MIL came to live with us when her son, my husband, and his sister, her daughter both said, "She goes to a nursing home." Um, I don't think so; not as long as everyone is able to give her a home. After all, she gave her children a home when they needed one.
ReplyDeleteI digress. Our home had good days and bad days but I never wished I'd decided otherwise. Does the Canadian government have assistance?
My best advice...get help; do NOT try and do it all on your own...not even with your husband's help...you NEED outside help...
Rewarding, the changes that come from caring. I see such differences in my two granddaughters over the three years I've had them. I've always said people tend to rise to expectations, and these girls have. I suspect the same of your mother in law and your expectations.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely story Evalina.
ReplyDeleteLinda
You are a generous spirit, as evidenced by the care you are now providing your MIL and see how she is THRIVING under your generosity! I would certainly read the book you write about the good-for-nothing son who is more intent on preserving his 'inheritance' than on preserving his mother's peace of mind, but some families will have selfish people, as I've learned, one way or another =\
ReplyDeleteLove does wonderful things for people. Good for you - and don't be afraid to ask for help. It's a tough disease, hard on everyone involved.
ReplyDeleteYou are a kind and generous person. That is a very difficult thing to cope with. I hope I would have had the same courage as you if I had the same circumstances.
ReplyDeleteThat is a beautiful example of deep generosity Evalina, and it's heart-warming to hear your MIL is doing better. Yay! Providing care and support for a loved one with Alzheimers can be challenging though so please find ways to get your own support needs met.
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