I was going into a nearby medical center and saw a man fixing an older woman’s shawl and hat – on a mild but cloudy December afternoon. As he pushed the woman past me, it was easy to see that they had the exact same profile; he was just about 30 years younger. I thought how caring he was and what an honor it is to have your child still care for you in your later years.
As I was leaving the medical center and driving away, I saw a woman pushing another wheel chair with an older man who was covered with a warm quilt; he looked so proud – again as I looked closely at these two, I could see the resemblance of a father-daughter duo in the same activity of providing care in the most respectful manner.
It takes time and patience to accompany an older family member to a medical appointment – but our times of communication and being with one another is often limited by our busy lives and this activity alone can be a beautiful moment of connecting, respecting and loving, even with those who don’t remember who you are, who might not say thank you or can’t remember where or what they are doing each moment.
For those of us who still remember and have energy – make these times of family care special by allowing yourself the luxury of not rushing but being in the moment.