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Aging Parents Aug 11 2007
"'Honor your father and mother' -- (which is the first commandment with a promise)..." - Ephesians 6:2
Perhaps the toughest stage of life is parenting our parents. It's a role-reversal both parent and child would rather avoid. The Bible clearly teaches us to honor our parents, and that means caring for them when they are old. Let me suggest a few thoughts:
* The greatest gift you can give your aging parents is time, but if physical distance is great, take time to call or write on a regular basis.
* Be prayerful and sensitive when parents can no longer care for themselves or their home. Be honest in helping them think about where they'll live--be it a retirement center, a nursing home, or with you.
* As you face these tough decisions, be motivated by love, not guilt. Do what they most need, not what you most want.
Honoring our parents sometimes means parenting our parents. Remember, we reap what we sow. One day we hope that our children will have learned from us how to care for us when we are old.
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7 Comments
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Yes, report it NevermindThank you for the thoughts to help people deal with this difficult situation. I have been there. It is a time when everyone seems to get their feelings hurt in one way or another. Mostly it is because no one wants to see their parent's health declining. It is a balancing act between dependence and independence which is like a dance the child and aging parent must learn without any given directions except for the golden rule. Let love direct your steps.
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Yes, report it NevermindMy dad who is 86 year old lives with us here in Cochin, Kerala, India. It is indeed a challenge for us ( my wife and 3 children ) to spend quality time with him. Really needs God's grace!!
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Yes, report it NevermindThank you for the encouraging words. This is a difficult time and in life and does present a challenge when you do not have a close relationship with your parents.It is only by God's grace and love that you can move to a place of caring for those who may have dropped the ball when you were a child. It can be done though...it is important to set your boundaries and take your time to ease into it. Do not let others guilt you into thinking or doing something that is not healthy for you or your family. God knows yours and your parents every need!
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Yes, report it NevermindThis commandment is really a gift. My living out of state and visiting frequently led me to consider what should be done. I am the best one in my family to take care of my parents (Parkinson's and Alzheimer's), since I am divorced. So, I have sold my house and moved into my parents' home, which my father built 50 yrs. ago. Now, they don't have to worry about where they will go, as I am going to be their caregiver for the remainder of their lives. This is not an easy choice, but it gives me peace of mind that I did the right thing for my parents considering our particular situation. Mary
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Yes, report it NevermindMary, what a blessing for your parents to have you, their daughter, care for them. This is a wonderful gift you've been able to give to them. Caring for our parents is not always easy so pray for strength and God's guidance as you care for them. During this time, soak in the wisdom, the stories, and the many memories your parents will share with you. God bless you.
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Yes, report it NevermindMary, what a blessing for your parents to have you, their daughter, care for them. This is a wonderful gift you've been able to give to them. Caring for our parents is not always easy so pray for strength and God's guidance as you care for them. During this time, soak in the wisdom, the stories, and the many memories your parents will share with you. God bless you.
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Yes, report it NevermindTere is all the truth! The most distuished people in or lives! They give us all, yet they take nothing!!!