Maintain Your Joy as a Caregiver - HOW CAREGIVING CAN AFFECT YOUR JOY - Conclusion

 Caregivers may bottle intense feelings of guilt. A sister named Jessica says: "I struggle with my own limitations. Taking some time to care for myself makes me feel guilty and selfish." Some caregivers feel guilty because at times they resent their situation. Others worry that they are not doing enough to help their loved one. Still others feel guilty because in a moment of frustration, they said something hurtful to the person they were assisting. (James 3:2) Some grieve the loss of the vibrant healthy person they once knew. A sister named Barbara says: "One of the biggest challenges for me is watching the person I love deteriorate a little more each day." 

Some caregivers feel taken for granted. Why? Because they are rarely thanked or commended for their hard work and sacrifices. A few words of appreciation can go a long way. (1 Thessalonians 5:18) A sister named Melissas says: "At times, I have shed tears of frustration. But when I those I care for tell me thank you for everything you do for me,' It lifts my spirits! Those comments help me to wake up the next day read and eager to take care of them again." A brother named Ahmadu explains how receiving expression of gratitude affects him. He and his wife care for their young niece who lives with them; she suffers from epileptic seizures. He says: "Even though she may not fully understand the magnitude of the sacrifices we make to care for her, joy wells up in my heart when she expresses appreciation for us or when she scribbles down the words 'I love you."'

Next time: Maintain Your Joy as a Caregiver - HOW TO REMAIN JOYFUL

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