Recently I have been reminded of the guardians I have in my life. I do not recall asking anyone to take on the role. I do know that the volunteers have accepted and are standing in a critical position. Each is a sentinel, watching, standing ready, and in a unique position which strengthens a protective shield around me.
The lessons which emerged from the guardian relationships are ones I often forget or ignore. I keep falling into the trap that I am self-sufficient. I think and act as if I able to do it all on my own. I do not need a guardian, much less multiple guardians. Life has a way of reminding me of their critical role just when I am the most vulnerable.
Guardians are volunteers, responding to the invitation and nurtured by the relationship which follows. You can never force someone to be a guardian. There are those who should be guardians but for several different reasons and excuses, are not. My lessons start with the thankful recognition that s/he has steps into a role which does not pay and is often not recognized or appreciated.
Being a guardian is one of Life’s priceless gifts we can give each other. At its best, there is no expectation of return. At its best, it is recognized, valued, and treated in a manner befitting its value.
There are responsibilities on both sides of guardianship. Each applies to both parties and yet the ones I most often miss are the ones with me. I have a responsibility of care. I have a responsibility of nurture through time and appreciation. I have a responsibility to treat guardians with respect, avoiding any temptation to presume or abuse our relationship.
The lessons leave me with a sense of thankfulness and hope. In seeing with fresh eyes, I am thankful in how the “moon and stars as guardians of the night, His [Divinity’s] love never quits.” (Psalm 136.9) In seeing my guardians standing tall in her/his positive, actively looking out for my best interests, I am filled with hope.