Today I’m pleased to host Pam Thorson, who is a licensed practical nurse, author, speaker, and full-time caregiver. She pioneered in the homeschooling movement from 1982-2006 and authored her first book, Song in the Night, in 2008. Her newest book, Out from the Shadows: 31 Devotions for the Weary Caregiver (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas), released March 28. Pam resides in the Pacific Northwest with her family.
As a nurse and full-time caregiver to my quadriplegic son, finding time to recharge is difficult. I have discovered, however, that if I don’t stay connected to God, if only for a few minutes a day, I quickly fall prey to discouragement and fatigue.
On the other hand, it only takes a few minutes of time with Him to restore my sense of perspective and a grateful spirit.
When my world is crashing down around me, there is not always opportunity for a quiet time with the Scriptures, so I escape into God’s creation. I walk out into our spacious yard and thank God for the ability to see the sky, feel the wind in my face, and breathe in the fragrance of His world. I revel in the myriad ways He has revealed His personality and intelligence through all He has made.
Sometimes it takes all my concentration to pull myself away from my problems and turn my heart back toward my Savior. That’s when I realize just how far I have strayed from the “peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension.” (Philippians 4:7) It’s then I remember that a God powerful enough to name the stars and count the hairs on my head is big enough to carry my burdens.
I’m still learning how vital it is to make my life a sacrifice to my Savior. He is constantly drawing me to bring my actions and my attitudes under His authority. Before I allow myself to dwell on complaints or envy or anger, there is always a holy moment in which God speaks truth to my heart. In that sacred pause, I make a conscious decision to obey or rebel. It is at that moment He asks me to place my own desires and needs under His lordship.
If there is one thing I can share with others, it’s this:
No place is so dark, no shadow so deep, that God can’t find us.
Many times since our son’s devastating injury, I’ve been at the far edge of hopelessness, in a place so dark I despaired of ever seeing the light. In that place, I found an altar of surrender and God waiting for me. He brought me hope, a greater revelation of His fierce love, and a deeper trust in His power.
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April Yamasaki 
April, thanks for introducing your readers to Pam and her book. Wonderful trailer! The role of the caregiver is very hard and yet rewarding when supported by one’s faith in God and one’s community. Many of us will play this role and many of us will need the care of others. Blessings on the journey. This sacred pause blessed me.
Thanks for the comment. I’m glad you liked the trailer. It was produced by my son, the one I care for. What beautiful irony, isn’t it? Blessings.
Thanks for your comments, Shirley and Pam. The caregiver can be a precious and demanding role, and I’m thankful for resources like Pam’s that can offer support. How wonderful too, Pam, that your son produced your trailer!
April, thanks for the opportunity to share this sacred pause with your readers. I am honored to be here. Many blessings on your journey with God.
It’s my privilege to host you, Pam. I trust this post and your book will be a blessing to many, and I appreciate your sharing your experience.