Dear Friends
The Need to Talk
Week of July 9, 2023
Dear Friends,
It doesn’t feel like "us" and "them." It feels like "me" and "everyone else." When you're taking care of a loved one, you may think no one else in the world understands what you’re going through.
And to a certain extent, you’re right. No one else in the world has the same combination as the two of you. Relationship. Illness or disability. Ages. Locations. Living situation. Family history. Emotional, psychological and spiritual strengths and weaknesses. There is an infinite number of variables.
No wonder it's easy to assume that no one else can even come close to comprehending what you’re going through. No one else can really help you.
Fortunately, that isn't true.
No matter where you are on that very broad spectrum of "caregiving," there is a basic human need to talk about what is happening to you. To tell someone what your questions are. Your concerns. Your fears.
To say out loud, to give words to, the confusing and overwhelming mix of emotions that are filling your mind and your heart. The temptation is to remain silent. To try to tough it out. But then that inner turmoil will only get worse.
This is how our flier, "The Need to Talk," begins.
Go here to read the rest of it.
You can find the entire list of flier topics here.
feel free to print and distribute copies of any or all of them.
As always, you and your loved ones remain in my prayers.
-- Bill
- - -
Again this week we cordially invite you to join the Friends of St. John the Caregiver! (FSJC's programs include YourAgingParent.com and CatholicCaregivers.com.) You can find out more about becoming a member here.
No meetings, no dues. All we ask is that you pray for caregivers and those receiving care. Our members include caregivers, care-receivers, and those who support both (including quite a few former caregivers).
You can:
sign up online here
or call us toll-free at 1-800-392-JOHN (5646)
or print
and mail an application form.