Paula Parks-Zetlin

Being a caregiver has taught me empathy, maturity, and possibly one of life's most useful qualities – the ability to cope.

Being a caregiver can be stressful and difficult at times. The only thing that keeps me from stressing over the situation is the empathy I have acquired.

Empathy is defined as “the intelligent identification with the feelings, thoughts, or attitudes of another.”

It is the ability to put aside my own thoughts and feelings for one moment in the day in order to attempt to understand those of another human being.

The most rewarding aspect of caring for someone is being able to keep my client comfortable, pain free and peaceful.

Other rewards are establishing new friendships and building trust and respect. When it comes down to it, you have a new friend, you’ve learned to love differently, and you trust in yourself and God even more.

It's one of the most rewarding experiences and journeys in my life.