Welcome to this week’s “Five Minute Friday.” Our instructions, via creator Kate Motaung: “Write for five minutes on the word of the week. This is meant to be a free write, which means: no editing, no over-thinking, no worrying about perfect grammar or punctuation.” Today’s prompt: WORTH.
Worth is a concept that presents a challenge to me. It’s easier to ascribe worth to someone else than it is to myself.
Especially over the last three years, after I quit my “real” job and began the patchwork of caregiving + part-time work + life, I have increasingly found myself asking “how do they do it?” when I see friends/acquaintances juggling a “9-5,” family, and community obligations.
I have had several conversations recently with friends about what “counts.” I will admit I am a bit driven by external recognition — certificates, being mentioned on social media, winning awards (I used to aspire to be an FSU “Grads Made Good” but that ship has probably already sailed as far as it being a possibility – unless I write an amazing book – you never know!!). But there are smaller, subtler things that have worth too. A couple of times recently, people have made it a point to mention how they used a green pen I gave them and it made them smile. A simple green pen!
But I don’t give green pens to just anyone. Choosing to give one means something worthy, maybe just to that person and me, but there is optimism in the exchange. Maybe I need to remember to give myself that same optimism, every day.
The caregiving life is full of times you wonder if your choices matter, if anyone notices, especially the recipient of the caregiving. [STOP]
This post is part of the weekly Five Minute Friday linkup.
Wife of one, Mom of two, Friend of many. My pronouns are she/her/hers.
Green pens. What a blessing you are!
Caregiving. What a blessing you are!
Thank you, Loralee! This prompt ended up being more challenging than it first seemed. So many directions it could have taken!
I agree, it can be easier to ascribe worth to others than to ourselves and it can be hard when it seems like our work goes unnoticed. Being a caregiver is such an important role though- I’m sure all you do is appreciated more than you realise, but showing love and care is always valuable regardless.
Yes it is (valuable). That’s the challenge of having to (or choosing to) stop right at the five minute mark! I could have elaborated! I also think of the fact that our children and other people who rely on us to be role models need to see us valuing our own worth. It’s easy to forget people are watching for cues.
Man, caregiving may not provide you a plaque to put on your wall, but your love will always be unforgettable. I loved this post! #fmfparty No. 55
You know, you have a point there! Thanks!
No problem! 🙂
Whenever you are a caregiver, even though the person may not be able to show it, they need you, and that makes YOU worthy! 🙂
Yes, I agree for sure! I guess the challenge with the five minute limit is …… it’s limited! I think one of the issues is the world does not view caregiving as a “job” — you don’t have to adhere to a dress code, drive to work, buy into the employee leave pool — that type of thing. But it’s definitely work! 🙂
Hi Paula, I’m terrible at timed writings, but you’ve crafted a meaningful, well-written and inspiring piece! Now that’s worthy! Great job! xoxox, Brenda
Thanks, Brenda! Timed writings are definitely a challenge (and I will admit I spell check the things before posting them. I can’t help myself!).
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