#12 Loving lessons from a Caregiver

I learned that sometimes looking past the obvious was needed. I learned to look at what was being communicated beyond the actual literal meaning of Alan's words or actions and what would satisfy the situation for what it really was.
Often Alan would call to find me in other parts of the house or when I was out in the garden. In Living on the Verge of Insanity I describe how I realized he was partly defining his existence through my presence. When I realized he didn't literally need ME but was really looking for himself in my presence I could relax because nothing more was required of me. I would answer his call over and over and he found his comfort.