Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. Leo Buscaglia
The circle of life is profound. There is a great similarity to parents caring for young children, and adult children as caretakers for aging parents.
The difference is where little children promise growth and potential, aging parents are about loss of capacity and decline.
Still, there is an incredible connection when young and old are together, representing an almost unspoken bond.
Both need to feel they are in control, whether it is the clothes they wear, food they eat, or when they go to bed.
Naps are a necessity!
Little children love to hear the same stories over and over again, while aging parents love to tell the same stories over and over again. The storytellers and listeners must maintain a consistent level of enthusiasm.
Perhaps the elders tell their stories over and over because they are afraid the lull in the conversation means the call or visit is over.
Perhaps children ask you to tell the same story over and over again, because they just love being with you, and don’t want it to end.
Both groups need your help with you everyday tasks; one is learning for the first time, while the other has forgotten.
There will come a time you will wish you were more patient, and you could turn back the clock and pay attention to little people or the elders that mean everything to you.
We haven’t found a way to stop the clock, so find moments to celebrate and laugh, and enjoy how wonderful it is to be needed.
Have a great week!
Tina Nocera, Founder
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