She’s had over 30 more Christmas’s than me, but she most likely won’t see another one

— h e r e —

with family and friends.

I asked her what her secret was

after she told me that she felt fortunate

for having had a long, blessed life:

K    I     N     D     N     E     S     S

she whispered with a shine in her eye that hadn’t dimmed any.

Sometimes,  I think the best research out there is that which comes from our own experiences and then,

well then,

we actually  N O T I C E   it.

My personal research over these past twenty   p l u s   years of bedside sitting

has taught me that people don’t expect

or want much towards the end of their lives.    .    .

 J  U  S  T      A      P  E  R  S  O  N      W  H  O:

Took time to sit with them 

Was a good listener

Helped keep their pride and self-respect

Maintained Confidentiality

Was trustworthy, dependable, patient

Respected and championed their rights as a patient

Helped their family and them to maintain as much control as possible over the situation

Heard them and responded appropriately; laughed with them, cried with them

Accepted them totally, was not upset by their physical appearance or limitations

Was comfortable with herself or himself

Was comfortable with silence and with touching

Was aware of our own limitations

Was realistic about death

Could support them without having to give support

Was unbiased, non-judgmental

Would remain a friend to their family after they died

Could help them live until they died

Was Kind

No diplomas necessary

No special certifications

No ordinations

No money exchanged

No

Excuses!

It’s been said by many before and most likely never heard enough:

WHEN YOU HAVE A CHOICE OF BEING KIND OR RIGHT. . .

be kind

always

(all-ways)

. . .Discover what it really means to be a

C A R I N G    C A T A L Y S T– W H O   C A R E S