I overheard someone saying "how brave Elaine is", and I was
stunned at her remark and felt somewhat embarrassed. I have never seen myself as "brave"; simply
practical, optimistic, hopefully encouraging others through my determination
and strength of spirit to lead the best possible life they can despite suffering
chronic disease. Bravery to me is something very different.
A fire-fighter who rescues people from a burning building and certain
death, is not phased by the personal danger he faces. Engulfed in flames, his
sole mission to fearlessly rescue whoever is trapped inside and come out alive.
Ambulance teams who arrive on the scene of an emergency, go straight into action,
despite the horrifying circumstances they may meet. Without hesitation they get
to work quickly administering to the injured and taking them safely to the nearest
hospital. A surgeon who has been operating for hours and suddenly faced with
a patient experiencing serious complications; has to think carefully but
quickly, for someone's life is in his hands. Every decision he makes is
crucial. These people are most definitely brave.
But there are different types of bravery; one form that
may not sound quite so dramatic, and doesn't make the headlines in the news, but requires in my mind, long term commitment
and unconditional love, is to stay the course and take care of someone. Being a
caregiver who unselfishly gives of themselves every day without a second thought,
is indeed brave in my eyes. So to all you caregivers out there - your bravery
doesn't go unnoticed - you are acknowledged and very much appreciated.
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