There are days when I wake up and wonder if I have what it takes to get through. My mind starts running over what needs to be done and I get caught up in the enormity of it all. I have to shut those thoughts down, force myself out of bed and get started. Somehow, once I’m up and moving it all seems to fall into place and everything occurs as needed.

Mulling over everything that must be done benefits no one. Instead if I respond with what needs to be done in the moment it all magically happens. It’s a mindful approach that keeps me focused and headed in a positive direction. Wasting time thinking about upcoming challenges wastes my energy, something I don’t have to spare most days. I’m not saying that we don’t give thought to schedules such as figuring out when he should do his PT routines. We create a timeframe for our day then just work it.

I don’t want to minimize the work I do as a Caring Partner, it is difficult and can be exhausting. It must also be manageable and the best solution for me is acceptance. Understanding  and accepting where my husband needs assistance and how I can offer it. No ruminating on ‘what if’ or ‘if only’, we have what we have. I can make it through by tackling challenges as they come and not worrying about them until they come up again. Because they usually do and I will be ready.