Role Reversals...

I recall the irony. At only 24, I remember helping my mom -she was only 60 (seems even younger the older I get!) but she was ever so fragile and frail; she had congestive heart failure. In particular I remember helping her in and out of the bathtub, helping her dry off, put on Estee Lauder powder using a giant fluffy powder puff, ad put on silky jammies. How backwards it seems to be helping those who have always helped you. The natural, yet SO unnatural job of caring for those who have always cared for you; they were the one who cared, shared, ministered, listened, provided strength and perspective. Now the roles reverse and you are the one doing the caring, perhaps decision making and frequently, sacrificing. It is so bittersweet--thankful to be in a position to help and yet the little child in you thinking this isn’t right; almost feels disrespectful. The importance of your role now isn’t one that the world especially values. Our society tends to base someone’s value on what they can do for you. But now it is our turn to care for someone who can’t do it alone.... our turn to help feed, bathe, drive, even help with personal self care sometimes. We will never remember some of the care we received through our illnesses or injuries when we were young. Serving your parent as the one in charge of their physical and emotional health, may feel awkward at times, but is of great service and one of utmost importance.