Caregiving July 26

Grace United Methodist Church-Moorhead, MN

Caregiving For All: Del Larson, Certified Lay Minister

What a summer! Some very nice weather for vacations, but just not enough rain at all. Luann’s family cabin avoided a tornado that did extensive damage to both sides of the lake on July 6. Millions of dollars in damage to the west side of the lake, and the point across the bay from our cabin. Recovery is still going on clearing the lake. I don’t have the strength to be a chainsaw lumberjack anymore, so I prayed and donated to the cause. I have struggled going to the lake this summer, after so many great memories of Luann and me there together.

I’ve completed my third module on becoming a grief coach. It’s harder than I expected, but fascinating. It’s helped me understand and work with my own grief. While not everyone should take a grief coaching course, God is calling for me to help myself and others manage their grief. My goal is to offer classes at my church to guide others through their struggles. I think God forgot how old I am. I have had the chance to use some of the knowledge I have gained from my class with a friend when we went fishing a couple of weeks ago. He was frustrated with God over the loss of his wife three years ago. We had a great conversation on the way home. He said he had trouble believing some of the things I shared, but I gave him the book, Healing After the Loss by Martha Whitmore Hickman. It is a daily meditation that gives you something to focus on for that day. He tells me it is helping. Forgive me for any errors. I don’t always trust AI

The following link is directed at helping seniors be more comfortable and safe in their environment. It also helps you manage more than one relationship. Check Agingcare.com for “3 Ways to Improve Self-esteem in Seniors”

Check Agingcare.com for “3 Ways to Improve Self-esteem in Seniors”

Please remember to take care of yourself. Don’t wait until you crash and burn. Do the things now to help you control your frustration, anger, stress, your relationships, and your body. IF YOU DON’T TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, WHO WILL CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONE WHEN YOU GO DOWN? MOST OF YOU WILL STRUGGLE! Remember that 60% of caregivers die or become unable to care for their loved one because of health. God bless each of you on your journey.

BOOKS:

I’m going to share this book with you again, The Well-Lived Life by Gladys McGarey. This should be required reading for newlyweds, expectant parents, and those planning retirement or older. The author was 103 years old when she wrote it and has many great stories and wonderful directions to guide us through living a fulfilling life.

John O’Leary’s book, On Fire, recounts his story of surviving a near-total burn accident at age 10. Despite the challenges, he became a national speaker, married, and raised a family. The movie “Soul on Fire” is available on streaming services.