A friend and colleague recently sent through a lovely greeting: “May you feel the hope of new beginnings and happiness during this joyful Easter holiday.”
Another wrote: “At this seasonal time of year, I’m flooded with childhood memories of the new outfit for Easter Sunday, always eggs and gifts from the bunny and a special dinner – sometimes at home and sometimes at our Grammie’s house. Although we’ve all had challenges from our childhood, I like to focus on the positives that were present and feel the gratitude that comes with remembering…”
I agree with both sentiments.
Toward that end, allow me with this holiday posting to tap into a tri-fold of calendars: Christian, Judaic and Pagan. As we go along, you’ll see how the underpinning themes tie in with eldercare.
Letting Go
A most-holy day in the Christian calendar, Good Friday is obviously associated with Jesus Christ’s crucifixion at the Calvary. On a more secular basis, I’ve long ago lost track of how often I used to draw a daily Angel card called “Surrender & Release” at the height of my stubborn father’s care. So, my (bold) question here is: What needs to “die” by way of attitudes or actions that no longer serve anyone’s higher purposes?
Liberation
The story of Passover with its message that slaves can go free (and the idea our future can be better than the present) has inspired countless religious sermons, prayers and songs across the millennia. If we could, let’s return to my scenario. I also used to regularly pull the card called “Freedom”. It states we’re the only jailors who ever surface in our lives. Thus, what’s one liberating attitude or action you can now adopt regarding your aging folks?
Renewal
Did you know Easter gets its name from Ostara, also known as Eastre, Goddess of Springtime and the Dawn? Symbolic of fertility, her annual arrival in the spring is heralded by the flowering of trees and plants – plus the arrival of babies human and animal. This prompts several inquiries. What kind of rebirth can you generate concerning your familial relationships? How might you restore positivity and hope even under trying circumstances?
Bringing It All Together
As Simon Chokoisky writes in The 5 Dharma Types: Vedic Wisdom for Discovering Your Purpose and Destiny, there is always upheaval before regeneration, death before rebirth.
Therefore, at this sacred time of year (no matter your religious beliefs), I invite you to consider how the themes of letting go, liberation and renewal tie into your personal eldercare situation.
It’s a great opportunity to take stock. Which positive memories do you choose to retain? What wounding associations are you now ready to let go of?
Whichever, I always stand at the ready. Relief and hope are only a phone call at (905) 822-2503 or email away at support@carolannhamilton.com
Carol-Ann Hamilton
Latest posts by Carol-Ann Hamilton (see all)
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