As we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday, I am struck by the lasting impact he had on the world. Although he’s been gone for decades, his message is still as meaningful and powerful as it was when he led the civil rights movement in the 1950s and ’60s. He was one person who used his  voice to start a movement that changed the world.

Today, I’d like to encourage you to take a moment to think about your own voice and what you could share. How could your experiences help other caregivers? Would you be willing to lead a caregiver support group? Or do you think you might be able to serve as a “Caregiving Buddy” to an individual who is new to caregiving, so they don’t feel that they are all alone? 

As you go about your caregiving duties today, I hope you’ll also take the time to listen to what your care receiver is trying to say. Regardless of their physical, mental, or emotional state, they still have feelings, opinions, and the right to be heard.

Very few people will ever be as eloquent or have an impact comparable to Dr. King, but we can each make a difference when we listen carefully to what others have to say and use our voices to encourage and support other caregivers, we make a huge difference in their life. 

If we all did that, I believe Dr. King would be honored beyond words to know that his dream is still alive.

Thought for the Day: 

"I recognize that being a caregiver has provided me with insights that can benefit others. I will look for opportunities to share my knowledge and compassion and use my voice to help other caregivers."