It's 10:30 pm on Christmas night and I'm sitting upstairs, alone with my thoughts. Miss Elizabeth has gone downstairs for a well deserved bath and bed as she is exhausted from the events of the past few weeks. Not from the anticipation of the arrival of our family for the holidays, and not from the hustle and bustle of shopping, wrapping presents, and decorating the house. No, this year the Holiday preparation has taken a backseat to more pressing needs.
When the parents' health begins to fail it changes everything, and it hits especially hard around the Holidays.
Everywhere you look there is joy and laughter, children anxiously anticipating Christmas morning, and all that goes with this festive time of the year. But, when your own heart is laden with sadness, the festivities seem to ring hollow.
This year the concerns for Elizabeth and her sister, Donna, have been with her parents, both elderly, and both with the difficulties that often come with advancing years. They are still in their own home, but recent events have impacted their ability to do the basic things needed to continue living there without assistance. The two daughters are both nurses and well qualified to deal with the medical decisions that are necessary, but they are also both daughters....who love their parents. Where do we go from here?
Tough decisions await, and I've been there before.
My mom passed away earlier this year after a long bout with Alzheimer's.....it was heartbreaking.
I've known my in-laws for nearly 45 years and they're like a second set of parents to me. Selfishly, I don't want to go through this experience again, but I know God is in control and will guide us through what is to come. On this day when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, I pray to him for the strength to be there for Elizabeth and Donna.
The greatest pain one can experience is the pain of a loved one.
Dear Friend Jack, I wish to say that I too know the feelings you are experiencing this holiday season, as I too have lost my parents recently.
ReplyDeleteThat being said I wish to let you know that I will be praying for your families comfort and peace of mind during these trying times. I too know what a comfort it is when you know that your loved ones have a close relationship with Our Lord and Saviour. Thus knowing that one day we will be reunited with them in a far better place. Much love and prayer is sent your way this coming year as I add your family to my devotionals.
Sincerely; Elmer Hatcher.