Redeem The Time!

Redeem The Time by Kim Campbell for CareLiving.org

See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time,…
– Eph 5:15-16 NKJV

This passage tells us to consider our circumstances in order to use time wisely avoid making mistakes.

When my husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, time suddenly became very precious to me because I knew our days together were numbered. Nothing was more important to me than being with him. At the time, I only had a few classes left to finish my certificate of Interior Design at UCLA Extension. I loved the program but most of the classes were at night and leaving Glen alone to go to school was out of the question; so I put that goal on hold as I became his full time caregiver.

I accepted my new role gladly, but felt it would be a mistake to give up the things I enjoy, because they are the very things that make me who I am. Sure, I might not have been able to take any more classes, but that didn’t mean that I couldn’t continue educating myself at home. I bought books on color theory, and began experimenting by choosing new paint colors for all the bedrooms and bathrooms in our house; which I then painted myself!

I admit that I made a bit of a mess, and that there were a few times when Glen let our dog, Kona, into the room while I was painting, causing paw print pandemonium. In the end I learned a lot and kept myself busy while I was home spending time with Glen. What’s more, Glen seemed to enjoy watching me pour myself into a project, which gave me a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.

Kim Campbell's Bathroom for Redeem The Time
My bathroom, which I painted “Coffeehouse Chocolate” CW-165 by Benjamin Moore

Don’t feel defeated because you can’t do something that you had planned to do before you became a caregiver. When God closes a door he opens a window. Find a way to continue to grow as a person and to do things that excite you while you care for your loved one. Make each moment count.

Redeem the time!

2 Comments

  1. That’s true ! We need to cherish all the time with our love one ! That is the most important thing is to be there for them ! God Bless you !

  2. Stacey Huntington says:

    That’s so funny and true. Looks like you did what I did. I love soft whites, beige with soft silver accents. My Mom passed away. and I was sad. I painted my bedroom Ralph Lauren Metallic Grey on 5 walls and Bronze on another. It turned out great because it was a change.I don’t recommend anyone taking such difficult paint on.. But I do believe that what color you surround yourself with privately will influence your mood and life. Lighting is huge and yellow cast lights are not acceptable. full spectrum . Not LED .

Leave a Comment