It amazes me how two simple words, when spoken from the heart, can mean so much and put people at ease.
My parents are 85 and 87 years old. Recently, we decided that, in order for them to continue living in the home they’ve lived in for 42 years, they need someone in the house 24/7. This was not an easy decision but came out of necessity.
Within a few minutes of meeting their new helper, Mickkey (not her real name, but I have no idea how to spell, or even pronounce, her name and she says it’s okay to call her Mickkey - two k’s), I knew my parents would be safe and happy under her care.
She came into our lives with an attitude of, “I’ve got this.” taking charge in the kindest way you can imagine: Not pushy at all, open to hearing all that needs to be said, asking great questions, and reassuring and helpful. Watching her with my parents was like watching an angel. When my parents were okay, she hopped up to take care of things that needed taking care of, but the moment either of my parents needed/wanted her, she dropped what she was doing, and showed up for them. She was attentive for as long as they wanted her attention.
One thing I learned from her, was something she said to my mom when my mom called out to her for help. Mickkey answered, “I’m here.” Those words made ME feel better, and I know they made my mom feel like everything was going to be okay.
“I’m here,” feels so much better to hear than “Yes?” or “What do you want/need?” Don’t they? These two little words carry big meaning. They are gentle and sweet, caring and supportive. These are two words I’m going to start using.
My parents are 85 and 87 years old. Recently, we decided that, in order for them to continue living in the home they’ve lived in for 42 years, they need someone in the house 24/7. This was not an easy decision but came out of necessity.
Within a few minutes of meeting their new helper, Mickkey (not her real name, but I have no idea how to spell, or even pronounce, her name and she says it’s okay to call her Mickkey - two k’s), I knew my parents would be safe and happy under her care.
She came into our lives with an attitude of, “I’ve got this.” taking charge in the kindest way you can imagine: Not pushy at all, open to hearing all that needs to be said, asking great questions, and reassuring and helpful. Watching her with my parents was like watching an angel. When my parents were okay, she hopped up to take care of things that needed taking care of, but the moment either of my parents needed/wanted her, she dropped what she was doing, and showed up for them. She was attentive for as long as they wanted her attention.
One thing I learned from her, was something she said to my mom when my mom called out to her for help. Mickkey answered, “I’m here.” Those words made ME feel better, and I know they made my mom feel like everything was going to be okay.
“I’m here,” feels so much better to hear than “Yes?” or “What do you want/need?” Don’t they? These two little words carry big meaning. They are gentle and sweet, caring and supportive. These are two words I’m going to start using.
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