A Reflection on Language

I just listened to an episode of ‘Terrible, Thanks for Asking,’ the podcast by Nora McInerny titled “Care During COVID.”

There was something very significant to me about her separation between the role of Caregiver and [insert any other role/relationship here.] It struck me as a distinction that gave someone permission to speak about the challenging role without it being as tightly connected with their role as Mom/Daughter/Son etc.

Language is such an important thing. As a therapist, I give a lot of thought to language, the words I use, my clients use and the words that are just floating around in our world. Nora’s discernment between Caregiver and everything else someone is to someone they love struck a chord with me. The importance of the language was particularly noticeable when she asked guests, “Do you wish you weren’t a Caregiver?” and they were able to say “no.” I have seen many people struggle to convey this because what they are doing for their loved one has been so deeply intertwined with their other relationship or role with that person. There is often guilt or shame associated with admitting they wish they did not have this role.

This conversation has made me think more about language to consider and highlight for my clients who are struggling with the role of Caregiver and the many complicated emotions associated with it. I intend to carry this forward with me and use this reflection to remind me of the power in the words we choose to use.

Thank you, @Nora, for the conversations you have with others about the things so many don’t talk about, for allowing us to see the power in vulnerability and embracing all that is possible to experience in life.

February 26, 2021