• Feeling valued by others • Developing one’s higher self or soul – some people may have neglected this longing for a greater sense of wholeness because of fear, lack of understanding or a busy lifestyle but this desire may surface in a profound way as a person faces a life threatening illness. 3. THE VOLUNTEER’S ROLE IN SPIRITUAL CARE Because volunteers have so much contact with the dying person and family, they are likely to see the person striving to find meaning in their situation and dealing with spiritual issues. Volunteers can provide spiritual support in many ways.
We are to be a calming presence and if those we are with want to talk they will. We can come with our own agenda believing that the other needs to talk about dying or what we consider spiritual matters. The reality is that some never will and it is their choice. This doesn’t mean that we are not offering spiritual care. Cassidy S. Sharing the Darkness, 2003
1. RECOGNIZING A SPIRITUAL NEED It can be difficult to recognize when someone has a spiritual need. Some people may have clear spiritual goals that they pursue through prayer, reading or being close to nature. Others may wrestle with their faith when they find they are dying. People may ask questions about the future,
such as how will I die, when will I die or what comes after death. It is possible that family members are reluctant to talk with them about death so they turn to the volunteer. It’s important for volunteers to listen carefully to what the person is really asking. The questions may mean the person is frightened and seeking reassurance or just wanting someone to be present with them in their reality. One sign of spiritual need or distress is greater anxiety, which may be expressed as anger against God, life, family members – even the volunteer. The volunteer can learn to recognize spiritual need by listening and being sensitive to small clues. For example, is the person generally content with what he or she has done in life? Is he generally more forgiving of others? Can she identify a purpose for her existence? Or does the person express a lot of bitterness, regret or anger? Those who are angry are more likely to need more spiritual support.
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