In interviewing caregivers, I found it important to listen to the individual and their story they had to tell. Sometimes, the message was in words or expressed emotions. At the end of each visit, there was always some time to reflect and offer support and guidance. I left sometimes with emotions of happiness, tiredness, or even sadness. I was not prepared for the impact these family caregivers would have on my view of life. I surely did not want to get old and experience the loss of my independence. Though many of the interviews were welcoming, I was still capable of closing their door and continuing with my daily routine.
Nurses and other authors are continuously writing about caregivers and trying to understand their moments in time. This photograph was on a scheduled visit with Corky and his mom, Delores. I received an invitation to visit with them in the warmth of their garden. There was a feeling of calmness and it was easy to see the respect each of them had for each other. Thank you for this chance to come and listen to your story. As time has a way of healing, there is no control over the passage of time. One can only be accepting of the future and live each moment. Sometimes, life is not just back and white. It is what one does with the shades of gray that matter most.
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