From the time Danielle was a little girl, I could sense there was a special trait about her – that of a gentle caregiver. She seemed to have an innate sense of nurturing and caring for others, especially those younger than she. As a 2-year old toddler, Danielle would pay special attention to younger babies the way a mother would, cooing and peek-a-booing. This special trait was more evident when Danielle became a big sister at the tender age of 4. She cherished her newly-appointed role as big sister and relished every opportunity to hold Joseph in her arms, to feed and burp him ever-so-gently. During those early years, Danielle was my sidekick, helping me with diaper changes, bath and feeding times. Even then, Danielle seemed to have the ability of anticipating the needs of others before they were made known. And she was quick to act. For instance, should I find myself ill-prepared for the mess while feeding Joseph, Danielle would disappear and return with a couple of wet towels and another bib for Joseph.
Therefore it is no surprise that 10 years after this photo was taken, Danielle continues to be that gentle caregiver with Joseph and Mary. The events that unfolded today remind me of that fact. I was faced with a logistics challenge by having to juggle the needs of my children and the more pressing needs of my ailing mother-in-law. Joseph was ill with a low-grade fever and a tummy ache, and wanted to rest in bed. Mary was due for her mid-day nap to be followed by a late lunch. My mother-in-law needed to be fed and taken to her oncology appointment. Ultimately, I made the decision to leave the children alone for a few hours under Danielle’s care and supervision so I could attend to their “Oma” (grandmother). At regular intervals, I called to check on them while continuously praying for faith and peace of mind. Whatever worries I had, I offered them up; and each time I prayed, each time I called, I received peace of mind. While I was busy administering Oma’s feedings, making sure she was comfortable, changing her bedding, laundering her clothes, dusting and straightening her bedroom, Danielle was busy assembling her charges and mobilizing them for action. Joseph’s job was to empty the dishwasher, clear the kitchen counter, and pick-up toys in the family room. Danielle put away the clean dishes then proceeded to load the dishwasher with breakfast dishes. Mary, in her words, “helped by giving Ate (big sister) a cup to put in the dishwasher.” On two separate phone calls, I learned that Danielle fixed their favorite sandwiches for lunch and their dinner made-to-order. She managed to take good care of her siblings while still trying to recover from being sick with fever over the weekend.
When I finally reached home that evening, I was greeted by an orderly kitchen and family room, and well-fed and happy children. I smiled, I clapped, and I praised and thanked Danielle for her kindness and support. Her willingness to serve allowed me to serve someone who needed it most. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
P.S. This special photo was taken 10 years ago by Danielle's Tita Grace, a talented photographer in her own right.
Therefore it is no surprise that 10 years after this photo was taken, Danielle continues to be that gentle caregiver with Joseph and Mary. The events that unfolded today remind me of that fact. I was faced with a logistics challenge by having to juggle the needs of my children and the more pressing needs of my ailing mother-in-law. Joseph was ill with a low-grade fever and a tummy ache, and wanted to rest in bed. Mary was due for her mid-day nap to be followed by a late lunch. My mother-in-law needed to be fed and taken to her oncology appointment. Ultimately, I made the decision to leave the children alone for a few hours under Danielle’s care and supervision so I could attend to their “Oma” (grandmother). At regular intervals, I called to check on them while continuously praying for faith and peace of mind. Whatever worries I had, I offered them up; and each time I prayed, each time I called, I received peace of mind. While I was busy administering Oma’s feedings, making sure she was comfortable, changing her bedding, laundering her clothes, dusting and straightening her bedroom, Danielle was busy assembling her charges and mobilizing them for action. Joseph’s job was to empty the dishwasher, clear the kitchen counter, and pick-up toys in the family room. Danielle put away the clean dishes then proceeded to load the dishwasher with breakfast dishes. Mary, in her words, “helped by giving Ate (big sister) a cup to put in the dishwasher.” On two separate phone calls, I learned that Danielle fixed their favorite sandwiches for lunch and their dinner made-to-order. She managed to take good care of her siblings while still trying to recover from being sick with fever over the weekend.
When I finally reached home that evening, I was greeted by an orderly kitchen and family room, and well-fed and happy children. I smiled, I clapped, and I praised and thanked Danielle for her kindness and support. Her willingness to serve allowed me to serve someone who needed it most. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
P.S. This special photo was taken 10 years ago by Danielle's Tita Grace, a talented photographer in her own right.
2 comments:
I've no doubt that Danielle's aptitude for service has come by way of grace but also by example. She couldn't be so accomplished if it weren't for fine examples set by her parents! I applaud you!
PS - Do you believe in arranged marriages?
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