Article written for Volume 3, Issue 5 of ‘Luminous Wisdom: Sophia’ (a Sibella Publications magazine).
There are enormous numbers of carers in our community providing personal service to others. They are dedicated to caring for loved ones to the best of their ability despite complex situations and a myriad of emotions that sit beneath the surface. Being a carer is a noble cause and without a doubt to be admired, for it is not an easy path providing ongoing care to another with relentless, selfless giving. This role can be exhausting, frustrating and endless where resentment and a sense of hopelessness can feel overwhelming. To make it more complicated, such carers also known as Lightworkers, and tend to feel deep guilt if ever a negative thought enters their heads! They are God’s Own!
With several taste tests of personal caring and a career in the caring world, I take my hat off to these Angels of Care because I know that many of them give service without a thought. They take on their duty as a given and deserve our utmost respect. It was with this in mind that I was taken by surprise when volunteering to care for my friend’s elderly dog for respite. With the changing of the guard, my frail doggie friend struggled to adapt. Unexpectedly, we were both thrown into the finer needs of true caring and me into some frustration.
With the problem solving and a little annoyance clogging up my heart based sight, I was struck one day how precious this dear dog really is. I had elected to peacefully walk in nature with my doggie friend in tow, while the wind blew our hair and the cobwebs filtered away. I began to sing and dance. My dear buddy, bless him, made effort to jump up with excitement. I sang and he barked the chorus. Together we found joy and connection. Despite his weakened legs and evident pain, he easily reached for play. From that moment I became more aware of his efforts. His desire to not make a mess. His anguish when he suffered little accidents. I began to see the soul of the lovely being as he struggled to do what he once could. My compassion swelled exponentially.
I was reminded that all of us are here for a reason and as our seasons come to an end, we all find it more challenging. When the work we promised to do in this life is almost done, how lovely to be recognised for this! Whether animal or human, we have done our best to provide our offerings. This beautiful dog has given pure love, friendship and protection to his mum and served his years well. I am privileged to have spent time and been able to give a little service back to this special soul. How wonderful to do this with an open heart for anyone we care for. Giving without expectation is not easy but this week has reminded me to give simply because they deserve it and because I am the lucky and honoured one.
