I learned a valuable lesson a couple years ago. I met Denise, who was totally paralyzed. She could not speak, and the only movement she could make was to nod or move her head from left to right very slightly. She had very advanced progressive MS. I visited her often and soon learned that in my time with her, I wanted to help her connect with the outer world as much as possible. It would seem that she was the receiver of what I had to give.
Maybe so, yet it came to me that she, too, would want to escape her immobilized world as much as possible and give also. Then it further dawned on me that she was already giving by receiving what I had to give. By her receiving, she was giving me the gift of providing me the opportunity to give. I told her that receivers are as necessary and worthy as the givers. If there were no receivers, there could be no givers. Her role in the chain of giving and receiving was vitally important. She couldn’t move, but her eyes could shine. She gave me a great gift when they shined back at me at that time.
Maybe so, yet it came to me that she, too, would want to escape her immobilized world as much as possible and give also. Then it further dawned on me that she was already giving by receiving what I had to give. By her receiving, she was giving me the gift of providing me the opportunity to give. I told her that receivers are as necessary and worthy as the givers. If there were no receivers, there could be no givers. Her role in the chain of giving and receiving was vitally important. She couldn’t move, but her eyes could shine. She gave me a great gift when they shined back at me at that time.
1273 Reads
- Posted by burns
- Mar 1, 2016
- Comments (15)
Readers Comments
sm2000 wrote: Truly amazing.
spreadlove wrote: We can survive only because of the give and take. We are constantly in that circle and that realization is so important. Thank you.
splain wrote: I missed your story about your friend Denise, such a beautiful, caring post. wonderful share.
Rippleffect wrote: I totally understand what you are saying. My Mom cant walk talk or take care of herself. She has taught me the biggest lessons in life..Love is a verb..it is doing for others. By caring for her unconditionally I know the true meaning of life. Her eyes shine just like your friends'....that kind of strength and courage is inspirational to be around. You are both a blessing to each other! XO
info66 wrote: A dear friend of mine, 28yrs old, has been quadriplegic since 11uyrs old. He now finally has a good home, that he lovingly names 'his family'.. It is indeed a warm nest, build by two carers & their son, helped by volunteers. His eyes sparkle in the most awesome way!
deepee wrote: Thank you for sharing such a beautiful story.
Mish wrote: How wonderful a realization & so true. And what a beautiful gift you gave her by sharing this realization with her. Bless.
deepee wrote: When you give of yourself, and genuinely care for others, the Universe will provide that love, care and happiness for you too.
mindyjourney wrote: Beautiful share, my friend <3. is true, our connect of give and receive...I have been on both sides of and know the importance of each. Thank you for your kindness. i can just imagine her shining eyes :)))))
pluto178 wrote: I used to tell my friend Janet the same thing she thought I was wonderful for looking after her for 11 or 12 years but I said yes and you allow me to FEEL wonderful without you I would be nothing. She got it in the end and realised the truth in it but we gave and took from each other and it felt good. x
