Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate: Dr. Cynthia Speaks!
Topic: February: A Month to Display Love
In the season of affection, we are reminded of the countless forms love can take and how it has enriched our lives. Whether it’s the constant bond of family, the connection of companionship, or the sacrifices of a relationship, love is an underlying thread that constructs the fabric of our existence. In today’s world, family caregivers face unprecedented challenges; many are often thrust into roles, learning to manage complicated care routines with little or no training, but they do it because they love!
Love is an action word. In the caregiving space, the care one gives to another selflessly shows love. Caregivers never have to utter a word because their actions speak volumes. Have you heard the song…May the work that I’ve done speak for me? This is the anthem of every caregiver. Love drives the work every caregiver provides.
There are numerous ways to express love for someone, but saying “I love you” is only one. Still, we touch, hug, listen, and spend moments together as caregivers; however, showing love through actions is, by far, the most meaningful.
We often equate emotions to love. When a caregiver shows emotions, it is often a result of watching a loved one endure an illness, mental decline, and or physical limitations that affect their ability to function independently. The result of seeing someone face a terminal disease, like cancer, would express sadness and grief, which are emotions of love.
So, as we incorporate February 14th, Valentine’s Day, into the art of caregiving, let us consider the words of a living God… “Let all that you do be done in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14). Selflessness is a profound gesture when showing love. Love omits personal wants. Foregoing wants as a caregiver is the total example of love.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, even if you are facing your caregiver journey, in the middle or at the end of life, demonstrating love is reflected from a place of empathy, sincerity, grace, and care. Be Safe! Be Well! Be Love!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman, a retired registered nurse and case manager, is the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She has released several books, including *The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community, From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers.
Website: www.cynthiajhickman.com
