There is a link below to a blog written by Herb Reese of New Commandment Men's Ministries. In his blog, he included a letter from a woman he knows who has had to deal with chronic illness and disability in her family for many years.
I have to admit: I am the woman who wrote to Herb. For a number of years I have been envious of the people that are served by his ministry. New Commandment Men's Ministries serves widows and single mothers by equipping and training churches to develop teams that will roll up their sleeves and provide help to those who need it on a consistent basis.
It's true that over the years my family has been blessed beyond measure by friends, family and the church. I love each and every one of you who have helped. I truly do. And I do not want to appear ungrateful. But the help is inconsistent. And frankly, the further down this path we travel (it has been years!) the less support is there.
Many well- meaning people have said, "I don't know how you do it." If you look around, you'll see I am not doing it. Do you see my lawn? the grass is up to my calf. The weeds in my garden? The stack of bills? Dishes? Home repairs that are screaming to get done? The "to do" list is getting longer each day and it is almost impossible to juggle all the needs of my family.
Chronic illness sucks.
This week alone, I have been ping-ponging between two healthcare facilities as one member of my immediate family is in the hospital and another was transferred to sub acute care and rehab.
And I am at the end of my rope.
Ironic isn't it? I have this great desire to help caregivers in their struggles and yet here I am. Most likely I have crossed over from feeling caregiver stress to burnout. I don't need a mental health day. I need an escape from reality.
Take a moment to read what I wrote to Herb and his response via his blog. And please remember to set aside some time to help someone in need. It doesn't need to be much. Spend an hour pulling weeds, for instance. Your efforts will go a long way in making someone's life a little easier.
If Your Church Really Wants to Help, Consider This
