Yesterday I had the privilege of taking in a webinar presented by Dementia Alliance International, the presenter Dr. Kozhi Sidney Makai, delivered a presentation so powerful, that when it ended I heard from many who said they burst into tears when the meeting ended.
I have been fortunate enough to hear Dr. Kozhi Sidney Makai before, but this presentation came at a time when many of us whether we were attending as a DAI member, a guest or a professional, needed to hear this powerful message. It had such an impact on me I am still struggling to put it into words, what I can tell you is that when it is loaded onto DAI’s YouTube Channel, it is a presentation you will want to take in.
It came it seems at the perfect time, it’s sort of like that perfect storm is taking place, so much happening in the world, the pandemic, health lockdowns, political unrest, much uncertainty for people, alarming rates of homelessness, even organizations seemingly competing with each other instead of working together for the greater good, looking at how they can help each use the strengths each have to ensure the best outcomes.
Bring in this powerful presentation, for me personally, it came at a time, when amidst many changes in the effects of my illness, I have been struggling, feeling ineffective, feeling like no matter how much I try or want to do its not enough. Dr. Kozhi Sidney Makai’s presentation reminded me that Rome was built brick by brick, and for every person we touch through our work to make things better for all we do are building something brick by brick. He reminded all of the importance of DAI, in the world of Organizations in the Dementia Arena, the uniqueness and the amazing strength by those involved in DAI, to establish, maintain and grow this very global organizations, to see people from so many countries coming together to support each other, to build better communities, within our Dementia communities. DAI has a done what no one else has been able to. I was reminded that no matter how small my part in DAI is, it is important. I was reminded that for each person we reach whether we are reaching them individually or through our organization, we provide a ripple effect. That ripple will continue to spread.
I have so often said in my writings and interviews the DAI was life changing and life saving for me, yesterday’s presentation was affirmation of that. I am proud of the work being done, I am proud to watch so many of DAI’s members who go on to do incredible work in their own communities, cities and countries, for thats the ripple effect, 100% without a doubt its DAI’s crowing glory, watching all those incredible people doing so much. DAI has helped many go from broken to thriving, watching people find hope and purpose and then going out and spreading it further.
So to be reminded of the importance of doing and reaching even one, was an important message today, at a time when I was wondering how much longer could keep going. I was reminded that I just have to do what I feel I can, and it will be enough, and if I can mentor and help others along their journey, it is enough.
Each piece and twist and turn, every hard day, builds my resilience, builds my ability to make it through the never ending changes we must face when living with Dementia. It also leads to reminding me of all the other pieces and places in life where this is true.
I have many thoughts swirling from this presentation and I can not wait to share at our support groups, and beyond. I’m sure I will be be digesting and absorbing much for days to come.
My heart is filled with Gratitude and Thanks to Tamara Claunch for bringing Dr. Kozhi Sidney Makai to us, to DAI, for being so unique in the world of Dementia, for always striving to encourage and support members, and never ending appreciation of and to Dr. Kozhi Sidney Makai for bringing such an important message to us.
as a foot note: you can find Dr. Kozhi Sidney Makai’s books on Amazon
Chrissy's Journey 