A Day Built on Presence, Not Just Tasks

Most mornings start before the world fully wakes up because that’s when Dad wants to step outside and say hello to the sun, his oldest friend. We established a daily rhythm that provided him with a sense of comfort and control. He liked things to be predictable, and so did I. Mornings were filled with small routines: getting him ready, preparing breakfast, and discussing the day ahead. Doctor visits and follow-ups came next, where I did my best to advocate for him, ask the right questions, and conduct further research later to ensure nothing was missed. Movement was always part of our day, even as his mobility changed. At first, we’d go for walks; later, we shifted to couch stretches or gentle movements from the bed.

That’s where the true heart of caregiving lives, not in the checklists or the tasks, but in the quiet pauses, in simply being present. I’ve come to realize it’s not about how much you check off your to-do list. It’s about being there, really being there, for someone. When my dad would tell me his stories, it wasn’t just about the past—it was about him feeling like he mattered right then. I didn’t just nod along; I let his words sink in, felt the emotions behind them, and connected with the incredible life he’s lived. Those moments created a kind of connection that no amount of planning could replace. That kind of listening —intentional, heart-first —has the power to heal for him, and for me too.

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Jennifer Sermabeikian

Jennifer Sermabeikian is a passionate advocate for caregiver self-care and heart-centered living. With a deep belief that we are all caregivers in some way, she draws from her personal experiences and professional expertise to guide others. Jennifer is a Heart-Centered Life Coach, Voice Bio Sound Therapist, and Electrodermal Biofeedback Practitioner, blending health, nutrition, and emotional support into her caregiving philosophy. She wrote an amazing book on self-care for caregivers, all about helping people like us take care of ourselves while caring for someone else. Jennifer’s work is like a warm hug, encouraging caregivers to find balance, rediscover what lights them up, and hold onto joy, even on the tough days.