Enjoy the Sunshine

Here in Illinois, we are enjoying temperatures nearing the 60’s. This came after a nearly two-week period last month of freezing weather and repetitive snowstorms. Looking outside now, it’s hard to believe how miserably cold we were or how much snow and ice had recently covered our rooftops, streets, and driveways.

However, one caveat to the sunshine these past few days has been the strong winds that bring with them their own damage and challenges.  You can either hide from the wind and miss the sunshine or enjoy a walk in the sunshine and embrace the wind.

When I sat at my mother’s bedside the last day she spent on earth, there actually was a winter storm going on. The greater storm, though, was my internal one as I faced the reality that she would not live to see the next day. Rather than spending that time only crying, I began to minister to her. I cleaned and trimmed her nails, moisturized her skin and face, and cleaned and combed her hair. I also prayed over her, sang hymns, and read scripture to her. I reminded her that I loved her and told her that the family would be okay. It was a conscious decision on my part to ignore the wind and see the sunshine. I knew that she would soon be completely healed from Alzheimer’s, that her “winter” here would be done, and that she would soon know her name again.   Losing a loved one is never easy, but we all know that one day our role as caregivers will change. My hope for you is that you will see the sunshine in spite of the wind.