A few times people have told me when I worked in mental health that they did not know how I could work in that job market and that it takes a special person to do what I was doing. As I reminisce, it is much the same with caregivers. They toil tirelessly in the service of a loved one in their needs. Night and day they work, cleaning, cooking, dispensing medication, shopping, bill paying, etc. Making the decisions that formerly two had made, or parenting in the manner for a youth far longer than would ordinarily been, but illness demanded it.
These caregivers are the true uniquely special people. They are one of a kind, and we should strive to emulate their character. In the case of losing a husband or wife, they find themselves learning to perform dual roles, the other used to fulfill. It is then we also learn to appreciate all our beloved did that we took for granted.
When it is a child we are ministering to, all they have ever known is our selfless efforts in their concern. As one youth has said, "It is your job" when the subject arose of feeding, laundry, etc. How right they are, "Train up a child…(Prov. 22:6), and …bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord" (Eph. 6:4).
There are occasions when it is the parent we are mending after. This is especially true when it is their body and or their mind that is failing. It takes steadfast, patient, compassionate individuals in the daily care of loved ones. We may help them by giving support in every way possible within our means, even substituting a few hours allowing them some time in a change of environment. This is Aftercare.
