Meet the Parents

When Erica and I considered the big theme of the week, we immediately thought of parents. Maybe because Sunday was Fathers Day, or maybe because our parents are just so amazing.

This thankful appreciation of our parents began early Sunday morning, 6:30 a.m. when I picked up Erica’s mom from her home 15 minutes away. She had quickly accepted the request to stay with Erica while I went golfing with our two boys and my birth father who had come in from north-central Maryland for the weekend. Later that evening, my birth mother and stepfather arrived from Florida for an indefinite stay so that we would have live-in assistance as long as needed. We were blessed by all of our living parents in one day, in person, each showing love in their own way.

We can not be more thankful for these four very important people in our life. While many of our peers are beginning to care for their parents, we thank God that our parents are healthy and available in our moment of need.

Our parents love unconditionally. They know our faults and see our needs. They are patient (most of the time) and understanding, giving both Erica and me freedom to do things our way even if their way may be different. I am keenly aware of a mutual adult respect between us while still cherishing the supernatural love between a parent a child.

Each of our parents bring unique personal experiences in caring for the sick. It is as if they were trained for this moment. Erica’s mother boldly loved Erica’s father through dementia. My birth father faithfully cared for my stepmother, who struggled with mental and physical complications for nearly 20 years. And my mother and stepfather witnessed and served multiple siblings and their spouses who battled a range of brain and body diseases. From practical details like dealing with paperwork, rehab and home improvements to emotional support like how to pray and release stress, the experience and wisdom that each of them bring is endless. My encouragement to anyone reading this is no matter what circumstances or personality differences have shaped your relationship with your parents, never discount the value of their experience, wisdom and natural love.

Erica is slowly progressing as she gets re-familiar with home and more accustomed to the therapy routine. Several times this week she has stood and began transitions without warning. I admit, it is a bit scary when she does that, but I also find joy in her courage. She has started to be more independent with some basic tasks and is daily considering her appearance. The ladies will appreciate that she is wanting to accessorize even when lounging. (By the way, if anyone has a trick for putting earrings on another person, I could really use advise). Like all of us, she is best when well rested and nourished, but she tires easily. As her mobility improves, we find that she still needs reminders and cues with each basic task. Short term memory loss will always be a challenge, so we pray that eventually routine will override thought.