My concern is always with the caretakers of the world more so than with those they take care of. I have seen their tendency to put the needs of others before their own needs. It has to be a difficult and delicate balance. Can’t wait to read your book, Heidi!
I am sorry to hear that this was your experience as well Pat. I hope you are able to carve the time/energy now, to find a way to shift the balance toward recovery. I know for me it takes longer than I expect, curious how that is for you.
Doing well now Heidi. I’ve fortunately experienced a period of post-traumatic growth thanks to a wonderful partner, many wonderful friends, and work that I love. It does take time as you said.
Caregiving can organize a life around response, Dr. Heidi: the next need, appointment, interruption, or crisis. Creative work restores a different kind of agency, giving the caregiver somewhere to originate while daily care keeps asking her to answer. That may help explain how creativity can return identity and momentum after years spent in service to another person’s needs. I appreciate the turn you make here from documenting what the Longevity Load consumes toward asking what can begin giving life back.
I strongly resonate with this! As a side note about your upcoming exploration of the power of creativity, I don't think that I would be able to have the immense caregiving capacity that I do without the blessing of a strong, accessible creative practice. Big love to you and your Mom.
I am so glad to hear it resonated, Madeleine. I really appreciate your connection with this, especially since you are one of my prime examples of Creative Vitality in action! Also sending you and your mom that same love back!
My concern is always with the caretakers of the world more so than with those they take care of. I have seen their tendency to put the needs of others before their own needs. It has to be a difficult and delicate balance. Can’t wait to read your book, Heidi!
Thank you, Cathy. I know you are very familar with this landscape yourself. I always apprecaite your warm care and wise perspectives!
As always, you are too kind. 💖
Yes. For many years I did not care for myself. I see the results now.
I am sorry to hear that this was your experience as well Pat. I hope you are able to carve the time/energy now, to find a way to shift the balance toward recovery. I know for me it takes longer than I expect, curious how that is for you.
Doing well now Heidi. I’ve fortunately experienced a period of post-traumatic growth thanks to a wonderful partner, many wonderful friends, and work that I love. It does take time as you said.
Caregiving can organize a life around response, Dr. Heidi: the next need, appointment, interruption, or crisis. Creative work restores a different kind of agency, giving the caregiver somewhere to originate while daily care keeps asking her to answer. That may help explain how creativity can return identity and momentum after years spent in service to another person’s needs. I appreciate the turn you make here from documenting what the Longevity Load consumes toward asking what can begin giving life back.
Thank you, Rev. Taylor! I am touched by your thoughful comments here. I appreciate your lens and insights as well!
Such an important conversation, Dr. Heidi! xx
Thank you, Rhaine!
I strongly resonate with this! As a side note about your upcoming exploration of the power of creativity, I don't think that I would be able to have the immense caregiving capacity that I do without the blessing of a strong, accessible creative practice. Big love to you and your Mom.
I am so glad to hear it resonated, Madeleine. I really appreciate your connection with this, especially since you are one of my prime examples of Creative Vitality in action! Also sending you and your mom that same love back!