Guest Post: Many Hands Make Complicated Work

This week I'm thrilled to have my dear friend, Julie Smith, sharing her thoughts and reflections with you on being a part of my caregiving team. I'm sure many of you will be able to relate to her and be encouraged by her insights! 



One of the most challenging and likely most beautiful parts of caregiving (for the receiver in a community of givers) is the abundance of perspectives and expertise.  I am slowly recovering from perfectionistic tendencies that require me to do every job not only correctly but over and above the highest standard.  When you’re a part of a team of caregivers, you each bring something unique and special to the table.  

Within that, questions can begin to roll in, gaining momentum until the largest snowball is blocking the threshold of helping: How do I anticipate needs like Pam? prepare food like Rachel? clean like Shannon? be as precise as Abby? know how to intuitively fix or replace things like Mandy? etc…. I know I am able to do some things well, but how about excellently? 

My friend should have the best care, and I want to be a conduit of that. The tension waxes and wanes but the fact is, almost all of the tasks I complete are outside of my comfort zone- time zones outside my comfort zone! The inner battle to show up as not perfect or exactly what my friend needs is challenging.  The perceived and direct expectations can be as tricky as shale-covered ridges in the Rockies- one wrong step, and you take yourself and your friend down.  Whew!! High stakes!! How can I commit?? 

In the midst of the challenges there is an even greater motivator than fear: it’s love. Love for God and the people He has made.  Love for my friend and the life she is living.  She’s a treasure - not perfect, but such a true and wonderful friend. She is helping me as I help her, and together, I hope, we are becoming more like Christ because of the gift of time together, imperfections and all. Soli Deo Gloria. 

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