What Caregiving Taught Me About Cooking

Without hesitation my love language is feeding people! But it wasn’t until I stepped fully into the role of being a caregiver that I began to understand the deep, quiet truths behind feeding another person.

Caregiving has rewired the way I approach a meal. It has taught me that cooking is not always just about the food. It’s the thought, the energy and the emotion behind it. When someone depends on you for daily living skills; communication, movement, companionship and comfort you begin to see food not just as a necessity but a gift. I’ve learned that a prepared favorite meal can turn a challenging day into one that is manageable, and quite possibly a happy one at that. It’s not about presentation or the perfect social media picture, it truly becomes love on a plate.

Time takes on a rhythm in caregiving. Most days everything runs behind and hectic; I speak from experience. Exhaustion is front and center and soon discussions of take out becomes the only option. But here's what I have come to learn, especially as a caregiver and someone who cooks with love every day; meaningful meals rarely need to be fancy. Fancy is optional however thoughtfulness is not.

Some of the most memorable food I've made has been the simplest. A grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup when my daughter has had a tough day. Oatmeal drizzled with honey offered in silence for my son who appreciates a quiet morning. I cook now, asking myself, what will make them feel comforted today? These are not extravagant meals but they are intentional and served with the utmost of love.

Most importantly, caregiving has deepened my empathy for others. Everyone has a story and comes to the table with different needs whether they are dietary, emotional or physical. Cooking much like caregiving is sacred. It’s a quiet daily routine that says I am here let me take care of this part for you.