A Tribute To Those We Care For

[Laurab14]

I originally wanted to post this under "articles" but it does not have enough words. I am putting it here because everyone in long term care will understand.

Them

What a life they have lived~ the things they have saw.

Did they ever think this was how it was to be?

Many people see them as useless… a burden… a job.

A lifetime of memories, packed away behind empty eyes

Do they look at us ~ and remember what was then?

An unseen smile for they know what is to be.

Each day ages us one step closer.

As quick as it came to them, it will one day be us…

A lifetime of learning starts with them~ your purpose is clear.

Live each day thankful for what you have, each day is blessed

Appreciate the small things, take nothing for granted.

Look at them and be inspired by their spirit to remain among us.

The struggle for things we do not care to cherish,

Until we no longer can, or should, or be capable of

A lifetime of giving, now receiving

Imagine the humility the first time they had to be fed

… or cleaned… or diapered

Tasks they have mastered forever~ No longer

Depending on us to make it easier… tolerable… bearable

The job is hard, not everybody can do this work

It takes a special person to care for them, taking a part in their life

Keeping them safe… dry… secure.

As we care for them, they graciously teach us about life

The lesson unknown to us ~until we become one of them,

The job isn’t the task; it isn’t the duty, but the devotion

To remember the golden rule “Do unto others”

As one day it will be done unto you…

Laura RN

2010

[missy--kay]

I am an RN in an LTC... thank you for that. It is beautiful and reminds me why I love my job.

Thank you.

[traveler85]

Beautiful. Simply beautiful.