Earl Woods did not expect to see his son this week except on television. When Woods walked through the door of his father's house in Cypress, Earl Woods, according to his son, said as a way of greeting him, "What the hell are you doing here?"
Smiling, Woods said, "It was nice to hear that."
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Before Tiger's dad passed away in 2006, Earl Woods had been struggling with his health for a long time. Despite his schedule and profession, Tiger still made time to be with his dad. The full article containing the quotes above can be read on the link below.
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/24/sports/golf/24golf.html?st=cse&sq=march+24%2C+2006+-+tiger+woods&scp=1
I have always admired Tiger's care for youth ( his learning center, http://www.twlc.org/ is evidence of that) and he has consistently shown how important his dad is to him.
You would be shocked at how many people I have seen that want nothing to do with the responsibilities of caring for a parent when they become ill. They selfishly pass it on to other siblings/family members or simply neglect them. Many (some in my own family I hate to admit) were raised well and should know better!
A relative of mine had prostate cancer and had been sick for a few years before he died. His children were barely there during his illness! Sad.
This topic is close to my heart as my father became very sick when I was moving abroad. People commented about how tough it was for me and it was. What they don't know is that I visited him 4 times in the 15 months I was away, spoke to him many times, wrote letters and kept the peace amongst the family members who did not get along. In other words, I did what I was supposed to do.
When that day comes for you, I hope you will do the right thing. If your brothers/sisters are not doing their part, DO NOT be afraid to confront them because you will only be disrespecting yourself if you don't.
I know a couple who had to care for their parents without much help from their siblings. Their life was put on hold for many years because of this big responsibility. They tried to get help but it was a futile effort. I admire them immensely but it's a shame they had to do it alone.
It is important to remember that EVERYONE should live their life and not have dreams or life goals held back by parents as is too often the case. But if you have parents that loved and raised you well, they should be cared for in their time of need.
"Children raised properly should never neglect an ill parent".
Have the courage to speak up to your family if you need help! If the help doesn't come, do what you have to do.
Happy Gswede Sunday
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Stockholm, Sweden - One of the most beautiful cities in Europe
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