Where I work it is busy and taxing. Yet I know that at least for right now, I am supposed to be there. That knowing makes all the difference. Each day I spend washing dishes, dolling out medicine, feeding the residents and doing their laundry has purpose beyond the fact that these maybe the most mundane tasks. I want to laugh, because I realize how important it is that I can actually DO those things! I can tie my own shoes and brush my own teeth! I can walk on my own and get out of bed, things I have taken for granted my whole life thus far. The little things are to be cherished to be sure, but there are the big things that I see differently too.
Where I work is bringing me face-to-face with death. I know that sounds ominous but it's true. This last Saturday a resident passed away from the Adult Care Home right next door, the place I work at and the one next door are pretty much the same place. My manager said, "They always go in threes." When I asked her what she meant, she answered, "Anytime a resident passes away, two more are sure to follow within a relatively short period of time. They always go in threes." She said with such nonchalance that I was taken aback. But then I understood, she was stating a hard truth, the people who come here, expect to live out their last years or months here. We make sure the last stage of life is comfortable and as peaceable as we can make it. We make sure that they are well taken care of, but also know the hardship of when they pass.
With the lingering statement, "they always go in threes" looming in my mind I see things differently. My past experiences with a particular resident cause me to wonder how much longer she has to be with us. It saddens me because I like her best as of yet, she can do the least, but it the kindest and most appreciative. I can now see that my interactions with each person have more value than before, because they are what is important. I also wonder about other people in my life. How much longer will it be before I need to take care of my grandmother?
Even with such weighty thoughts, I find each day more precious and wonderful. Yesterday was a blessing in every way! I will be regularly nannying here soon too! Starting tomorrow it will be two days a week and then April, Monday through Thursday. How much more will my perspective change as I care for those who have been just brought into this world? And then again, as I continue to care for those who are making their journey out? God is being shown more and more to me as a truly LOVING and compassionate God.
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