Article July 15, 2019 Issue

Care for the caregiver

Elizabeth Mata

Originally published in The Christian Science Monitor’s Christian Science Perspective column, March 5, 2019.

Caregivers serving selflessly through their devotion of thought, skills, and willingness to help others also need to feel cared for—especially when balancing their own individual or family needs, or work responsibilities. Whether caregiving is one’s profession or involves caring for a family member or friend, I’ve found that considering a spiritual basis for care that includes the caregiver ensures ongoing strength and freshness in caregiving activities.

A number of years ago, I was regularly helping a woman of mature years get ready for bed for the night. This woman struggled with mental confusion, and most of the time our evenings ended in frustration. After enough nights of this, I realized I needed to rethink my approach.

Divine Love’s nurturing lessens a sense of burden.