Between Some Moods

As Caregivers Afterward, our new normal isn't about choosing between before and after, productivity and rest, feeling everything or nothing.

I am learning to hold both—gently, without judgment, and with the understanding that some days my mood will lean one way, and other days my mood will lean another.

Before & After — I honor who I am and the many moods of the post-caregiving syndrome while discovering who I’m becoming now. Not erasing the past, not rushing the future.

Everything or Nothing — Some days my emotions flood in (grief, relief, anger, reflection, freedom). Other days I feel beautifully clear or blissfully numb. Both are part of my healing.

Rest vs. Productivity — Definitely unlearning the belief that my value comes from doing, while also right here with this newsletter, rediscovering the joy of creating & moving forward now that I’m ready.

Holding On & Letting Go — Keeping the love and lessons, releasing the guilt and the bone-deep exhaustion that became my companion & my mood.

The beautiful truth? The balancing act itself is a new normal for Caregivers Afterward. There’s not a perfect equilibrium—but there is an opportunity, a healing sway, a new MOOD.

Read on…