What an encouragement!
When my dear friend, Becky began encouraging (pushing, prodding, urging! smile) me to blog, I had no idea that I would be the one to benefit so much from the effort! The comments you all have left over the past few days have been such a lift for my heart. Thank you! Thank you!
Isn't it amazing that we find strength for the journey when we know there is company on the road? Some who have been there ahead of me and others who are walking in transition right now; but each had great "perspective" to offer. A couple of you helped me to identify that part of the struggle is in trying to see my dad as an individual and not as still part of "mom and dad". So very true!
"Cerilin" offered some of what we call straight-up advice, "Remember that your dad's happiness is more important than your discomfort." Not candy-coated but definitely valuable counsel. And I appreciate it.
I'm acutely aware that reactions/responses at this early stage of transition are very important. So receiving this advice kind of feels like listening to the guides when you're getting ready to travel down a river with rapids. You know they have been there and what they are telling you had better stay in your brain so that in the critical moments you'll be able to respond appropriately. Whew!
Pam told about helping her dad move to a new home this past week-end because he just couldn't live there with her mom gone. Isn't it true that we never really know what is going on in someone else's life by just looking at their face? Helps me remember to be a little more patient with others around me.
I had a great story to share with you but I'll save that for another time. It seemed more important this morning to say thank you. Thanks for taking time to comment, for offering prayers and for taking time to read. I've always loved the phrase, "Joy in the Journey." But now, more than ever, I know that the joy truly comes from linking arms with others along the way and saying, "C'mon friend, together we can do this and do it well!"
Just wanted to say I love your blog! I have been following Sarah & Becky since caringb ridge so that's how I found you and I am so happy I did! :)
ReplyDeleteI love your blog too. I forgot that I have a tendency to be blunt...oops!
ReplyDeleteSeeing a parent begin to move on hurts so much. I remember it well and unfortunately I also remember handling it through avoidance. I avoided until I felt ready to be supportive. That wasn't fair to my dad. He had his own conflicting emotions and then had to deal with an absentee daughter too.
If I got a do over, I think I'd be a lot more honest. Something like, "Dad, I love you and want you to be happy. This is really hard for me but I know you are doing what is best for you."