My husband buys me a daily calendar for Christmas every year and I keep it next to my computer. The theme changes, for a few years I was looking at cute cats then it was sarcastic comments, this year it is inspirational quotes. Today’s quote comes from the writings of Buddha, and I thought I would share because it is so pertinent to my life. It reads “Each morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.” My role as a CarePartner is exactly this, living in the day, in the moment, ready to face whatever happens because this minute is what matters most.  

These gentle words emphasize the importance of letting go of yesterday so it will not impact today. I must be able to look at what is in front of me with fresh eyes. My husband’s condition fluctuates daily and my role must be fluid to adjust, not necessarily a bad thing. It simply calls me to give appropriate value to each and every moment that I have with my husband, reminds me to treasure my time wisely, reminds me that life is to be fully experienced.

In addition to the calendar my desk hosts a picture of myself mastering a zipline from a couple of years ago that reminds me I am adventuresome and capable. I have a copy of the Caregiver Ten Commandments to remind me that I am not invincible, and I have a picture of my son to remind me that I am leaving a loving legacy behind. My life can be meaningful every day if I open my mind to it and surrounding myself with positive energy is a great way to start. What I do today will matter and then I will start again tomorrow empowered by positive thoughts and intentions.