This is a story that speaks to the power of love, it's reciprocal nature as it ripples out in expansive and unforeseen ways… 

Rooted in Love

Caregivers are sometimes asked, "How can you do this work, caring for people who are sick, suffering and dying" This story explains it so beautifully! And those who partake in this healing work know what an honor it is to accompany people in this sacred time of life.  To be welcomed in to the lives of people at such an intimate, yet vulnerable time is a gift.

I am reminded of the wisdom of the late Jack Glaser whose words continue to live in my heart and the hearts of so many caregivers as he reminds us of how we are called to live, not in isolation but in community. 

"To be a community that serves, that speaks, that celebrates and prays in such a way that others — regardless of their religious belief — encountering this community experience a revelation of life's deepest truths…about human dignity, community, success, power, growth, sacrifice, love, suffering, debility and death. Experiencing a harmony between their heart's deepest resonances and this community's character, persons go from this encounter more healed, more whole, more able to live, to love, to hope and to die."
                                                                     ~Jack Glaser, ethicist, theologian, great humanitarian

With gratitude and deep appreciation to all caregivers who risk the sacred journey in the name of love. This is a tribute to all of you!

Shared by Liz Sorensen Wessel

4 responses to “Rooted in Love: Days 231-232”

  1. Maureen McDermott Avatar
    Maureen McDermott

    What a beautiful story. Thank you Liz. The mutuality of caregiving is the gift that keeps on giving, described so touchingly in the plant that was shared with so many. Thank you to those are caregivers who live their call with compassion, generosity and dedication. May God surround you with loving care.

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  2. Erie Chapman Foundation, Nashville, Tennessee Avatar
    Erie Chapman Foundation, Nashville, Tennessee

    Liz. Your are incredibly right about something that seems clear but whose implications are far-reaching: we must thank “all caregivers who risk the sacred journey in the name of love. By implication, for example, are the group of people who, for sometimes good reasons such as debt and other beleaguerment, chose caregiving for the pure transaction that it is a way to make money. If they are short on it themselves it is natural to seek the job for it. But if they continue to pursue caregiving absent love, they will suffer a second poverty – that of the spirit. One of the many things I love about you is that a big part of YOUR role is to help show those who have become cynical or transactional that there is something “in it for them” to turn to love instead of money as the foundation of their careers.

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  3. Liz Wessel Avatar
    Liz Wessel

    Thank you Maureen, this wonderful story highlights the mutuality in the gift of giving and receiving from a place of love. Deep appreciation of your blessing which will continue to ripple out as blessing to so many…

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  4. Liz Wessel Avatar
    Liz Wessel

    Thanks so much for your comment Erie. I am inspired each day by the steadfast dedication of caregivers. The foundresses who started our healthcare ministries have shown us the way forward in challenging times with steadfast love.
    Sometimes people become cynical when they have given so much without regard for their own well being. I used to think self care was a luxury but I understand now that it is not optional but a necessity.
    Thank you for carrying the torch of loving care throughout a lifetime of leading with love.

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