Caring for someone who struggles to care for themself

Caring for someone who struggles to care for themself

Author: SGI-USA November 29, 2021 Duration: 52:24

Today we are addressing a topic that’s universally challenging in close human relationships: How do you care for someone who struggles to care for themself? What if your belief in them is greater than their belief in themself?


To address these questions, we are speaking with Katie Thornber, of Los Angeles, who bravely shares a very personal journey she went through with her late father, and how she used her Buddhist practice to support him through the toughest time of his life.

This story is an incredible example of the Buddhist principle of the oneness of life and its environment.


CHEAT SHEET


1:09 Introduction to Katie and how she started practicing SGI Nichiren Buddhism

4:13 A little bit about her family and their experience with the financial crisis

6:05 How she decided to approach the situation 

10:30 What her dad was going through

11:45 Why she turned to chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo at this time

14:58 How she saw herself and her environment begin to change

19:25 Her dad’s health challenges and what it took to get him to a doctor

24:41 How he opened up to her

27:03 Why change always begins within

27:54 What Katie came to believe in

30:56 What freedom means in Buddhism

41:53 What the experience was like for Katie’s mom

45:50 How this experience impacted other aspects of her life

49:31 Advice to anyone who is struggling to support someone they care for

51:02 Words from Buddhist philosopher Daisaku Ikeda that Katie holds on to 

References:



It’s easy to lose sight of our own strength when life gets complicated, but what if that inherent clarity and capability never actually left? Buddhability explores that very idea through the lived experiences of everyday people. Host Cassidy Bradford guides genuine conversations with a community of practicing Buddhists from SGI-USA, who share how they navigate real-world challenges. You’ll hear personal stories that touch on everything from mental resilience and physical well-being to navigating career shifts and personal relationships. This isn’t about abstract theory; it’s a practical look at applying Buddhist principles to uncover a more confident and compassionate way of living. Each episode of the podcast feels like a thoughtful dialogue, focusing on how to reconnect with that inner resourcefulness-your Buddhability-amidst the stress and clutter of modern life. The discussions are grounded in the belief that enlightenment isn’t a distant goal, but a potential we can all access right now to improve our own lives and positively impact the world around us. Tune in for honest reflections and discover how this perspective can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary.
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