This Thanksgiving weekend in Canada, we're reminded to pause and reflect on what we're thankful for. Despite the world's chaos – wars, tumultuous elections, and less than stellar leadership in some sectors – I find immense gratitude each morning when I wake up in the safety and comfort of my Canadian home.
The Imperfectly perfect life
On the surface, some might say my life seems ideal. But as a parent of an autistic daughter with a rare genetic condition, our celebrations are different. They're in the victories, big and small, along our tandem journeys – moments of her progress and my healing that mean everything.
The stretch for gratitude in caregiving
Finding gratitude on the tough days can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The damaged walls, the torn pages of books, the tears, and the unpredictable days can test my limit. Yet, it's precisely in these moments, as I catch my breath, my heartbeat returns to normal and I am no longer in flight or fight, that gratitude finds a way back into my heart.
The anchor of self-care
Caregiving can be so unpredictable and part of my self-care activities anchor me and remind me I’m resilient and that these moments too will pass. They guide me to focus on the things I can control: my thoughts and my actions.
Learning through letting go
For the longest time I thought I could control my daughter’s behaviour (can you relate?) I actually believed I could change her behaviour on will alone. (Spoiler: I couldn't, and it only led to more stress for both of us.) Turning towards gratitude, I’ve found peace in acknowledging our journey – the lessons learned, the steps forward, the art of releasing what can't be held.
A heart filled with gratitude
This Thanksgiving, among everything else, I’m profoundly grateful for the peace and compassion in my heart.
And to all my fellow caregivers, I’m extending a warm encouragement to forge your path in gratitude. It’s not just about finding joy and peace; it’s about acknowledging your strength and the monumental role you play. You absolutely deserve every moment of peace and every joyous discovery on this journey.
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