Caregivers and Resentment
Resentment often feels like a regular companion for caregivers. It comes in flash points when we feel presumed upon, undervalued, and unappreciated. That resentment, however, cripples us as caregivers far more than it negatively affects others.
A pianist for even longer than my three decades as a caregiver, I often find myself at the piano working out the kinks in my soul. The music won’t come, however, if my fists remain clenched with resentment. Something beautiful flowing from my hands and heart requires opening both, along with a willingness to let go of resentment.
Nothing on earth consumes a man more completely than the passion of resentment. —Friedrich Nietzsche
Each time my hands open to play the piano, it signals to my heart that it’s okay to release grudges, slights, or bitterness. It’s not easy, but the music flowing from that decision is soothing and healing to my soul—as well as listeners. We all possess the ability to make and enjoy beautiful music and art in our own ways. As caregivers, that beauty is not limited by the harsh circumstances we face and carry, but rather limited only by our unwillingness let go of resentment.
And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. —Matthew 6:12
A goal I’ve set for myself as a caregiver is to one day stand at a grave. While I can’t guarantee outliving my wife and ensuring she and our sons aren’t left to deal with her massive medical challenges without me, I can, however, guarantee a better chance of doing so if I live a healthier life. Part of living a healthier life is avoiding carrying resentment. I don’t want to stand at that grave with clenched fists resentful at her, others who didn’t help the way I wanted, myself, or at God.
Letting go often starts with the simple act of opening one’s hand. The heart will follow.
I Can Only Hold You Now the new single from Peter Rosenberger on SONGS FOR THE CAREGIVER
Boy, did this hit home with me today, thank you so much! My husband and I had a discussion this morning after our devotional about this very subject. My commitment Bible verse lately has been “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart…” Well, admittedly “the meditation of my heart” has been my great struggle. I have been concentrating more and more on the Redemption promised at the end of that verse! Thank you, thank you again for the inspiration and encouragement you provide! (p.s., I loved the book!)
Thanks so much for sharing, Pamela. Glad you liked the book as well! Feel free to post a review of it on Amazon