Communication

If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head.
If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.
~ Nelson Mandela

You may wonder if people hear what we are saying when they are ill or unconscious and whether or not you should try to communicate with them.  I know people hear when they are under anesthesia, in a coma, or asleep.  Even infants hear while they are still in the uterus.  I can assure you that the senile and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease hear you, too.  Although they may not be able to communicate, they are still aware at some level of consciousness.

Talk to them, and let them know of your love.  Care for them from your heart, because to do it out of guilt will be felt by them and also by you.  Caring for someone for unhealthy reasons will take its toll on both the caregiver and the person requiring care.

There are other ways to communicate.  You can talk with your touch; embrace and massage them.  I often bring an infant, kitten, or puppy with me and place it in their arms.  Seeing them smile and react tells me they are very much alive, even if they have a dysfunctional body or mind.  Every connection has value and brings us closer to each other.

Even when you think someone is beyond communication, don’t give up.  There is always a way to share love.

Peace,
– Bernie