Family Links - Newsletter     July 2004

Families...   by Paul Falkowski       Many of you are realizing, maybe for the first time, that your parents are reaching an age where they will need your help.  Because of failing health, chronic illness, loss of abilities to care for themselves, they will need someone to care for them.  Decisions to care for a parent or loved-one at home are difficult because they are emotionally and spiritually charged.      This month, as a team, decided to write about fasting.  During the Lenten season leading up to Easter, people will abstain from certain foods, and activities.  Isaiah 58:5-8 presents God's idea of fasting.  " Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for a man to humble himself? Is it only for bowing one's head like a reed and for lying on sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD ? 6 "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter- when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?"      Not everyone can care for their loved-ones at home, that's why we need care facilities.  Whether your loved one is living with you or in a care facility, it's a difficult task and takes a great deal of time and energy.  So, I don't put this verse here to make you feel guilty, but simply to show you that the sacrifices you are making to care for you loved-ones, missing activities you enjoy, sleepless nights trying to calm their fears, dealing with medical, legal and financial issues are considered a fast that is pleasing to God.  In fact, in my opinion, it's worship.      Be sure to take some time for yourself, that is, eat healthy, exercise, get enough rest.                     We would like to hear from you!    Share your story with us.  What lessons did you learn?  Who or what did you find most helpful?  If you could do it over again, what would you do differently?  What would you avoid?                 Every Friday we meet to pray for your loved-ones, for you and for the care staff.  Please let us know how we can pray for you.