"Service to others without expectation is the purest form of compassion."
It is important to be in good shape the day of the Care giver's Triathlon. Make sure that you have spent hours in the presence of your elders, or those you care take so that you know what to expect the actual day of the Triathlon.
Schedule for the Care giver's Triathlon Day
1) Field several anxious desperate phone calls from one's mother. Respond with kindness, patience, more patience and a sense of calm. Try to sound loving, even if you are totally exasperated. Remember, you have been training for this all your life, and she gave you life.
2) Get dressed. Drink coffee, but no breakfast yet because it is time for the Yoga class. This is something you do for yourself to stay fit and centered.
3) Field more anxious phone calls from your mother. Check voice mail and see about the anxious phone calls you have missed.
4) Make phone calls to places that are practical and will help your parents.
5) Go for a swim. This is an important self care part of the Triathalon. Swim vigorously for 40 minutes.
6) Eat a good lunch. Half a tuna salad sandwich, salad and small mocha frappuchino.
7) Drive frenetically across town to see your anxious mother.
8) Hold her hand and listen to her.
9) Take into account your other family member needs. Assist your father in however he needs help.
10) Look carefully at your brother's paintings. Give constructive praise and criticism as needed.
11) Eat supper with your family, even if it is not what you would like to eat. Be grateful that they have food to put on the table.
12) Light the shabbat candles and give thanks for the week that has passed.
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