“I Care, But Not That Much…”

TODAY’S LAUGH: When DaMama came to live at our house four years ago, some of my friends were shocked. “YOU? CAREGIVING?” They weren’t being mean; they just knew me. I’ve joked that while some have the gift of giving, I have the gift of receiving. (Who will “givers” give to otherwise?) My motto has always been, “I care, but not that much.”

So NO ONE IS MORE SURPRISED THAN I AM that caregiving has changed me fundamentally. I’m learning to care. Actually care.

TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT:  I’ve “cared” in the past, of course. My heart went out to Katrina’s victims and to the families of 9-11. I’ve wept and prayed for the victims of dozens of other disasters–natural and otherwise. I’ve cared, but to be honest, not that much.

Not ENOUGH to actually write a check. Not ENOUGH to donate my time. Not ENOUGH to actually put myself out. (You’re probably nicer than I am, more generous, more giving–but I’m learning.)

This time–watching the Ike devastation–I’m doing something. And you can too. The American Red Cross needs us. Call 1-800-Red Cross or go to redcross.org. Give money. Give blood. Give time as a local volunteer. I’m sending my money today.

Another thing I’m doing locally. Our Alzheimer’s Association is having a “Memory Walk” this weekend (9/20/08) and I’ll be walking with KT, Joey & Charlie in honor of DaMama, who is teaching me–one of her last lessons maybe–how to care enough to actually do something. (Click here to donate to help all DaMamas and Papas out there.)

There are so many needs out there. Be a blessing to somebody else and show you care by sharing your time, talents or resources–your blessings–today. If we each just do a little, together we’ll make a BIG difference!