The Stimulus Package

Welcome to Caregiver Friday!

All we hear on the news is about the stimulus package.  I guess that’s a good thing since every day more and more corporations are announcing layoffs leaving the American public dazed and confused.  The Congress is debating all the options looking for what each party feels is the best solution.  This week the mayors of many cities descended on Washington to bring their ideas for infrastructure projects hoping to claim some of the 900 billion dollar package.

The idea that it’s not only the country that has an infrastructure but that each one of us has an infrastructure has to be reviewed.  It shouldn’t be a surprise that each of us has a foundation that keeps our bodies, minds and spirits moving at all times.  Our relationships are living entities and they too have an infrastructure.  The infrastructure of our relationships is love, compassion, friendship, trust and probably a host of other foundation attributes.

As a caregiver/wellness partner shoring up your relationship infrastructure can be soothing, amusing, inspiring and re-affirming.  As we’re in the midst of the winter, it’s a great time for you and your loved ones (not only significant others, but family and friends) to create a pocket of warmth and nurturance.  There’s a reason that bears hibernate in caves; it’s safe, protected from the elements and there is a reassurance when you’re in a space that feels like a womb.

It’s not uncommon to allow the infrastructure of our relationships to erode over time.  Like water on a rock, after a while the responsibilities of caregiving can be tiresome so it’s important to create a preservation plan.  This isn’t about conducting a life review, but creating opportunities to fortify what constitutes your relationship infrastructure.

What are some of your personal infrastructure components?  Is there one in particular that has been taking a beating and is wearing thin?  What’s one thing you can do with the person you’re caring for to regenerate or renew your relationship infrastructure?  How might this help ease the tension or the pressure you feel as a caregiver?  I’d love to hear your personal stimulus plan and how reinforcing your relationship infrastructure plays a part in reconnecting on a more peaceful level.