Oh what I am Learning Lesson #2

Cleaning, sorting, organizing, trashing and hauling away have been the mode of operation this week. In the hope that my mother who has dementia may be returning to her apartment, my husband and I began to clean her apartment. We have known for a while that she had hoarding tendencies, but until we examined her belongings more closely we had little knowledge of how much she collected.

Outwardly the small one bedroom apartment appears tidy and put together, but under the surface, in drawers, closets, and refrigerator the evidence revealed her addiction to stuff.  It seems as though anything that she really likes she has multiples of. Multiples meaning 8-10 of the same thing.  This could be food, clothing, flashlights, shampoo, or laundry detergent.

She hasn’t always been this way. The Dementia has increased her need for things. I believe that her possessions have brought her comfort.

Lesson #2

Possessions only Bring Temporary Joy

The funny thing about dementia is that you don’t remember certain things. In my mothers case she has vascular dementia which causes her to have a difficult time remembering new information. When she purchases something she will forget that she has it and purchase another. Her joy of that new possession is very limited. The results of dementia are clearly seen throughout her apartment with the mounds of multiples that we found.

Before I judge her I must admit that I too have a love for things. Looking in my closet,I do not need anything rather, I want things. I have looked at my clothing as a form of comfort.

Jesus warned us about loving things too much

Then he said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.” Luke 12:15

As He spoke about the rich young ruler Jesus knew that the joy of our hearts can only be fulfilled by a relationship with himself. He alone can be our comfort.

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

Thanks mom for teaching me to Love God more than possessions!