The Value of Friendships
We have all heard the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” I am quickly learning that it also takes a village to help care for a dependent parent or spouse. When a tragedy occurs, you really find out who your real friends are and who you can count on to be there for you.
Over the last couple of weeks, I have been preparing, conducting, and cleaning up from a Life Event Sale at my mom’s home. It has been an overwhelming task for me and I could not have accomplished it without the help of some really great people. Friends of mine and my mom’s from ages long ago have reached out and spent countless hours helping me sort, set up, sell, tear down, pack, haul, and whatever else was needed to get the job done. People that I have not seen for decades stopped by to visit and shop. They sent their friends to do the same. I heard about stories of long ago and appreciation from these people for what my parents meant to them. It was very heartwarming.
I also have to thank my sister for spending several days of her first week of summer vacation helping watch over Mom while I was away. She was a great help and it allowed me the opportunity to devote my time and energy toward this sale. She expressed that the experience helped her better understand the challenges of being a caregiver for a live in loved one. Just having that extra support and sharing is crucial for my sanity sometimes.
I also found that just asking for help from people most are more than willing to do so, if they are aware of how they can be helpful. I received help from some people whom I had not met before. Almost everyone can relate to this type of situation and understand the challenges.
I will forever be grateful to everyone who stepped up. You all will be true friends in my book and hope that I can return the favor when a need arises.
