IMG_1459I grew up in Kansas, so I was hoping the Kansas City Royals would win the World Series. I was bummed! But this morning when I read the paper, I was truly impressed by a comment from the Giant’s left-handed pitcher, Madison Bumgarner. He said, “I wasn’t thinking about innings or pitch count. I was just thinking about getting outs, getting outs, until I couldn’t get them any more and we needed someone else.”

Granted, caregiving isn’t as exciting (or as high paying) as professional sports, but they are alike in that both jobs require a huge commitment of time, energy and dedication. They are also similar in that most of the time ball players and caregivers have to focus on meeting the most urgent need.

I suspect Madison Bumgarner went to a place deep within himself to find the confidence that fueled his ability to do what needed to be done. Today I’d like for you to think about focusing on the spirit that is deep within you. I’m pretty sure that’s where you get the strength to care for others. But today instead of focusing on your care receivers, think about what you need to do so you don’t lose yourself in your caregiving duties.

Think about something that gives you strength, brings you pleasure, or reenergizes your soul, and then focus on doing what you need to do to take care of yourself. If you regularly replenish your own spirit, you will be more likely to continue to have the emotional and physical energy you need to care for those who cannot care for themselves.