This week, I had a heart-to-heart conversation with my mama about how grateful I am to be able to care for her at the beautiful age of 75.
It is truly a blessing.
As I listened to her, I also thought about what this season of life must feel like for her. She moves a little slower now. Many of the friends she shared life with have gone on, and that brings a kind of loneliness and change that may not always be easy to put into words.
Sometimes, when we are caring for someone, we become so focused on what needs to be done that we forget to consider what they may be experiencing emotionally.
They are adjusting, too.
They are adjusting to changes in their bodies, their independence, their routines, and sometimes even their relationships. They may need more assistance, but they still want to feel seen, heard, respected, and included.
My family’s caregiving journey did not begin with me.
Mama suffered a stroke in April 2006. According to the doctors, she was not expected to survive.
But God had another plan.
I sometimes smile and say, “God laughed at that.”
Not only did Mama survive, but more than 20 years later, she is still here. She is 75 years young, surrounded by love, and still bringing joy to our lives.
Look at God!
I also want to be clear that I am coming into a later chapter of this caregiving journey. My three sisters were there during the hardest days. They carried responsibilities, made sacrifices, and cared for Mama through seasons I did not experience firsthand.
I love and appreciate my sisters and their families for every sacrifice of love, care, and support they have made over the years. Their lives, homes, schedules, and families were also affected by their commitment to making sure Mama had what she needed.
Caregiving is rarely the work of one person. It often touches an entire family.
Now, I have the blessing of caring for Mama during this season of her life.
One of the things that brings her joy is having a themed tree in our home. Every month, I change the decorations because that is what she wants—and it makes her happy.
Some people may see it as a small thing.
To Mama, it is not.
She looks forward to seeing each new theme. The tree gives her something cheerful to enjoy and reminds her that her happiness matters. If decorating a tree every month brings a smile to her face, then I will keep decorating that tree.
Caregiving is not always found in the big moments. Sometimes it looks like preparing a meal, helping someone get dressed, repeating something without showing frustration, sitting together in silence, or decorating a monthly theme tree simply because it brings them joy.
Love moves at a different pace in this season.
It slows down.
It becomes more patient.
It pays attention to the little things.
It reminds us that caring for someone is not only about meeting physical needs. It is also about protecting their dignity, listening to their stories, and making room for the things that still make them smile.
To everyone caring for a parent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, or another loved one: I see you.
I see the adjustments you make, the responsibilities you carry, and the sacrifices others may never know about. I also understand that caregiving can be both a blessing and a challenge.
You can feel grateful and tired at the same time.
You can love someone deeply and still need a moment to breathe.
Give yourself grace.
Accept help when it is offered.
And remember that the love you are giving matters—even when it is expressed through the smallest things.
Around the Table
What is one small thing that brings joy to someone you love?
A Thought to Purpose Challenge
Take time this week to do something thoughtful for a parent, grandparent, caregiver, or older loved one.
It does not have to be expensive or elaborate.
Make the phone call. Sit and listen. Bring their favorite treat. Ask what would make them smile—and then, if you can, do it.
Sometimes the simplest act of love can mean more than we realize.
Until next Tuesday…
Keep creating. Keep believing. Keep living with purpose.
— Kim M. Waller Founder/CEO, More Than Just A Thought LLC Where Creativity Meets Purpose To God be the Glory!