My mother-in-law is now in a nursing home. She doesn’t know anyone or even know where she is. She can’t speak or do anything for herself. Just like a baby, she is dependent on others for her every need. Today, I went to visit her and to check on my father-in-law, who sits with her every day. When I entered the door of the nursing home, I was greeted by some of the residents. One lady was watching the birds in the aviary. A gentleman was just sitting in his chair greeting those who came through the front door. The hallways were busy with nurses and aides going about their daily task of caring for the patients.
As I walked down the hallway, I would glance into the rooms and see the people that now call this place home. People who once raised families, held jobs, and just lived life are waiting out their remaining days. It always breaks my heart to see them just lying in bed or sitting and staring into space. I saw two little ladies in their wheelchairs holding baby dolls, moving their chairs with their feet, and talking to themselves. They appeared to be looking for something that is now only in their memories.
As I walked toward my mother-in-law’s room, I saw a decorative plaque hanging on the wall. The sign read Angels Gather Here. Was the sign referring to the precious people in those rooms, the dedicated staff taking care of them, or could it be that angels really do walk those hallways? When I entered my mother-in-law’s room. I saw her sleeping peacefully in her chair completely unaware of her surroundings. I decided that all of those things were true. There are angels that care for these dear ones daily. I believe there are angels from God sitting at the bedsides keeping vigil. And believe me, there is definitely an angel in room 301.
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My sons have an angel for a mom. I’m lucky because I’m married to that angel and have one for a mom too.
Even though this is mother’s day weekend, I’m not convinced that only women are angels. God gives us each the opportunity to be the one doling out an angel’s touch each day.
Oh may we (I) take advantage of every moment to be the angel in the room.
Reply to Steve JohnsonWhat a touching post Debra….it is true there are angels everywhere…..and somtimes they are even pets!! We swear that my boxer Rocky is my dad’s guardian angel. He was able to tell that there was something REALLY wrong with my dad and just by the strange actions of the dog, my dad decided to go to the Dr’s…..good thing he did! He was have a major heart attack!!! God does send all types of people and animals to look over us! So…when you get that….”no one cares” feeling….just take a deep breathe and talk to God…and your angel will be right there to guide you through!
Reply to DarleneGod bless you, Debra, as you love and care for Roger’s parents. When our family hurts, we hurt also. Only God in His perfect wisdom knows how He is providing for each person who has reached a stage where they can no longer function as desired. Because HE IS GOD there will not be a lack in their spirit for God is faithful who said that He would never leaves us or forsake us. I believe that HE is perfect and there is no place where HE IS NOT THERE suppying. I sensed your love for Roger’s parents and that is something that makes you special. Love you, Debra
Reply to Cora MerkleHi Ms. Cora,
Reply to DebraYou are so right in your comments. I loved what you said that there will not be a lack in their spirit. His love goes beyond our understanding. This is why I love talking to you. YOU are an angel. Happy Mother’s Day, Debra
Happy Mother’s Day to you, Debra! I love you!
Reply to Cora MerkleAngels are everywhere….if we allow God to use us and stretch us and us us His was….mother-n-laws or any in laws are such a blessings that they are my family-n-love…not law
Reply to mary campbellDebra, you honor, your heavenly Father by honoring your mother-n-love, & father-n-love….they have blessed so many over the years , as have you and your family …..I have been blessed and wish you the best Mother’s Day ever.
Thanks Mary,
Reply to DebraGreat point! My in-laws are certainly in-loves. Thanks for the reminder. Happy Mother’s Day to you too! Debra
What a beautiful way of putting that. I have an aunt in a nursing home and it is so sad. Once vibrant and independent and on the go and now uses a walker to go up and down the hallways to bide the time. Sitting in their little 10 x 12 room that they now call home. Not getting home cooked meals and the furthest they get outside now is in a courtyard. No countryside. She is 93 and broke both her ankles last year, but learned to walk again, but can’t live alone. Starting to get more confused. We need to cherish each and every day as a gift from God that we have our health and are able to bring happiness to others. Her happiest time of the week is watching Charles Stanley on tv.
Reply to Sharon KaddatzGod bless you.
Hi Sharon,
Reply to DebraIt is an eye-opening experience to visit nursing homes. They can be depressing places, but that is an opportunity for us to go the “Extra Mile” while visiting. Thanks for sharing. Debra
I don’t mention that we have hold service at a local rest home once a month. We do for those precious folks who can’t get out and go to church as we are blessed to do and take it for granted.As we want God to be glorified in all that is done. There are some like Mrs.Talley, who have alzheimers. There are some who have different ailments and other problems. We have an 80 yr. old lady named Ms.Bilha who is a deaf/mute, but feels the vibration of the music and sings “Jesus Loves Me” in sign language. We have had three over the age of 100 who come to the monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month,and they sing the songs of Zion. Out on the front of the home is a bronzed plaque which has Psalms 121:1-4 on it.
Reply to Stephen WidenerAngels are in each of these homes, and Jesus watches them closely. They are precious to Him, and in Matthew 25:35-46, He tells us about going there. We are in continual prayer for Mr.& Mrs.Talley, and we love you guys as well.
In Christ,
Stephen
That’s a great story Debra. It’s good to hear from you. I was wondering how Roger’s parents have been doing. You, Roger and Lauren have been on my mind lately. I know it has to be tough to see family deal with health issues. I’m glad to see everyone is hanging in there. Hope to see you guys soon. Take care!
Sam
Reply to Sam KerfootDebra “thank You” for that great heart warming story My father-in-law is 87 and in a Nursing Home I actually need to build up courage and strength(each time) before i go see him,, I can relate to things you have described and when I leave their each time I feel so sad for ALL the patients “Angels Gather Here” WOW !! what a great way to describe that and I know i will be –Uplifted each time I go see him from now on Thanks!!! God Bless you and your family
Reply to Bob (Buddy) Royerps: I spend at least an hour or more almost every day on Youtube enjoying the Talley Trio Again Thanks !!!!!!!!
Thanks Buddy, just remember when you go to the nursing home, you are one of those angels. God will bless you for it. Debra
Reply to DebraWhat a great thought ! Murray and I visit a friend each week in a nursing home,so I can relate to what you are saying. Good to hear how Cornie and Red are doing We think of them often especially when I look at one of her creations.Roxie loved them so much !
Reply to Alice ThorneHave a Great Mom’s Day.
Hi Alice, Glad to hear from you. You and Murray will always be a part of our family! We love you, Debra
Reply to DebraWhat you wrote here Debra was very well written. Reminds me of when my grandmother went into a nursing home many years ago, although it is tough not having any grandparents or parents alive anymore. Angels definitely gather in many different places-they sure are with your mother in law. Please have a wonderful Mother’s Day tomorrow.
God Bless,
Reply to Ron MessinaRon
Hi Debra! I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed the concert last night at Manley! Lauren has a really strong annointing!! I was uplifted by your music as it ministered to me. I am currently going through a situation that requires much prayer. I really need God’s direction and would appreciate the prayers from any brothers and sisters in Christ. May God bless you all! Will Kirk be singing with you anytime soon? I loved to hear him sing as well. Thank you!
Reply to victoria tylerVictoria, Thanks for the post. We will be praying for you. Don’t know if there is anything with Kirk in the near future. We do have something in PA but not around the area here. Come see us again soon. Debra
Reply to DebraHey Debra,
I enjoyed our chat at the store today. You are one of those folks who I don’t get to see often however, we can catch up on our lives in a minute! So sorry to learn about Mrs. Talley. My sweet mother passed away in Jan. from Alzheimer’s. It is a dreadful disease but the Lord allowed us sweet “glimpses” of my mother throughout her illness. Even in her last hours, as I held her sweet hands and read her favorite Psalms outloud to her, I knew she was listening because she was more restful! The Lord will provide you and your family all the wisdom, patience and peace you need as you continue to care for this sweet mother.
with love,
Reply to Kathy GibsonKathy Gibson
Kathy, I was so glad we got to visit the other day. You know you can even have God moments in the card section of Kmart! You will be in my prayers and Ms Dot too. Love you, Debra
Reply to DebraDebra
Reply to Kenny CarrollEnjoyed talking to you after the concert at Providence Baptist Church tonight and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it. Levon Jack Harvey (the little blue eyed grandson of mine) is definitely one of your youngest fans. He loves music, but is particular about what he likes. If he stops what he is doing and listens you know its good. Will sned you a photo of him if you like, just let me know where to send it to.
I am really blessed by your music, especially back in December of 2009 while recovering from back fusion surgery. I sat in my chair listening to all types of music for 4 weeks, I really enjoyed “Searchin” and “The Broken Ones”,listened to them over and over.
You are truely a God anointed family and I know as our father looks down from heaven he is very proud of all of you. For the work done for his kingdom and for dedicating your lives to spreading his word. May God continue to richly bless your family and keep you safe as you travel.
In Christ
Kenny
Hi Kenny, Your grandson is a doll. You may have a little musician on your hands someday. I’m thankful the music has ministered to you. God knows just what we need. Send us a pic of Levon to info@talleytrio.com. We would love to see it!
Reply to DebraDebra
Hey Debra,
This is BEAUTIFUL! So thankful for the angels God has placed in my life! One of them…being you.
Reply to Robin RingerRobin, I can say the same thing about you! Love you friend, Debra
Reply to DebraHi…just found this website tonight and was glancing through the post, would just like to say in response to the nursing home comments…I’m a Registered Nurse that has worked in a nursing home and yes there are angels walking the halls. Coming from the other side of the fence in watching the entire process…watching the families come and go, watching those that do not have families sit day after day with no one to talk to other than us the caretakers can be heartbreaking. Although challenging at times, it has been the most rewarding job and has been so amazing how many ministry opportunities have risen in the process, alot of these older people love Jesus and love to talk to you about Him! I would encourage you all to take the time to stop and just sit with some of these folks…it will amaze you the wisdom they have to share. I was advised as a young person just out of nursing school to remember that the Alzheimers patient and those with dementia were once blushing brides and young mothers….they were hard working fathers and loving husbands. When they are holding the baby doll they are really seeing their newborn babies…when you see an old man sitting by the bedside of an old woman that is no longer able to speak…he doesn’t see that, he sees the young beautiful 18 year old that he married…
My life has been greatly touched to be able to take care of these people in their last days and I just wanted to share…..
Reply to MarshaMarsha, Thank you for those beautiful words. May God bless you as you care for these precious people. Even though my mother-in-law doesn’t know we are there, we try to speak to as many of the sweet residence there. You and all those like you who care for them are truly angels. Thanks for visiting our site. Let us hear from you again. Debra
Reply to Debrawe will be praying for your mother-in -law.
Reply to James BettsIs your father-in-law name Jerry Talley? I found his name on the singing churchmen of Mississippi,and I’m wondering if that’s your father-in-law. My dad sang in that old album I Want the Lord to be Near J.B.Betts is his name. I’m his youngest son James
We are praying for your Mother-in-law.I found old album The Singing Churchmen of Mississippi. My dad sang in that album,and I found the Jerry Talley on album. Is that your father-in-law? My dad’s name is J.B.Betts. I’m his youngest son James.
Reply to James BettsHi James, No that’s not my father-in-law. He is R.C. Talley and a dairy farmer. Thanks for your prayers. Debra
Reply to DebraHey Deb – I can’t tell you how this makes me feel to know that Corney is in a home. I love her sweet face and wish i could hug her today.
I love you guys & I’m praying for you & Red as you care for her. HUGS!!
Reply to Missy WaldroupHi Missy,
Reply to DebraThat’s so sweet of you. Cornie still has a sweet spirit, but is farther away each day. Keep them in your prayers. Red goes every day before daylight to be with her all day. It really is a lesson in love and commitment. We miss seeing you all. Come to TN and see us! Love you all, Deb