As many of you know, my 86 year old mother lives with my husband and me. (If you would like to read about her and our life together, click here ) Finally, after a seemingly endless succession of home health care aides, she has a wonderful caregiver named Esther. It is a joy to come home after work and find my mom relaxed and happy, where before she was tense and anxious.
The difference is, Esther really cares. It shows through her demeanor and loving spirit, and her ability to listen and connect with my mom. She was the first caregiver that ever handed my mom a mirror, so she could actually see how she looked after her hair was done.
I know that is a small thing, however, it showed that she saw my mother as a WOMAN, as a person, and that my mom’s happiness mattered to her.
Many times, I have watched prior caregivers interact with my mom. Most of the time, there really wasn’t any real engagement, just tasks being done. While watching one day, something really hit me hard. The caregiver did not ever look my mother in the eye. Not once, even when talking to her. Ooh…that hurt. It made me so sad, and even worse, made me realize that I did the same thing sometimes.
After that day, I really make an effort to fully connect with my mom, and anyone else I may be talking with, by making sure to make eye contact.
Let’ s take a few extra moments to more fully engage with those the Lord places in our path today. Even if it means to just merely catch the eye of a stranger and say hello with a smile. Each person in our lives, whether a casual acquaintance, friend, family member or stranger, has a heart with a story to tell.
When you make sincere eye contact with them, you open a window between their heart and yours. Remember that, as you make your daily encounters! You may be the one that is sent to help open their heart….be sure to let them know you care, and that they matter.
Maybe, just maybe, they will be reminded of how much God loves them, because they realize somebody loves them.
A very simple way to share God’s love.
April 26, 2014 at 2:58 am
Yes. That’s a very nice thing to do, and so effective in showing sincerity. Thank you for sharing.
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April 28, 2014 at 2:05 pm
Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving such kind words.
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May 3, 2014 at 6:08 am
We have to be the light of the world and show love to others no matter what in this dark world. Sharing GOD’s love – HIS gift of salvation is most important when in times of witnessing to others.
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May 5, 2014 at 8:50 am
Amen! We are all here for eachother as the Body of Christ. Blessings! Bernadette
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