Hi Carer1. Thanks for your post. I guess I read your first sentence a few times. There's quite a bit in that and I sympathise that you feel this way. In the first case you have made a difference to a lot of people. Now before you counter that statement just consider it a bit further. A) you have made a difference and B) you have every right to feel a bit tired, so don't beat yourself up over that.
Right and laws and legal issues is something we have very little control with but the future - well yes!
I'd start by saying that you do in fact have a future that you can decide. I also understand at the moment it may seem unclear so my advice for today is don't even bother considering it. Tomorrow may be different. You need to re-connect with the part that wanted to be a carer in the first place. You know that that is probably the most real part of you. Don't go chasing muddy dreams clouded with frustration. I did that for too many years. But when you take on board some kind words from a grateful recipient then you have a tiny flame of your true self. People make mistakes trying to keep the flame alive by trowing a wet tree trunk on top of it. And the flame goes out. Gently blow on the flame and let it grow. Even the smallest flame can burn down the darkest forest. Don't give up hope with such a loving and caring calling. I'm not a fan of glib quotes but I do like this.
"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and now is a gift. That's why we call it the Present."
