putting it into practice

If you don't know by now, I think it's fair to say that I am a bleeding heart [and a bleeding heart liberal at that, but no politics today]. I chose a profession, nursing, that allows me to open my heart to others, and help people when they are at their lowest and most vulnerable. I love that about nursing.

My job is to take care of you, protect your dignity, provide competent and appropriate treatment, and above all, be your advocate. In the operating room, I am in charge of your care. The surgeon may have the scalpel, the anesthesiologist may keep you breathing, but I coordinate it all. I make sure you are positioned so you don't have nerve or skin damage. I make sure that everyone is on the same page regarding the surgery. I make sure that no foreign bodies like sponges or instruments are left inside of you. I make sure that you are afforded everything that an awake person would in regards to your dignity and modesty. I get what is needed [equipment, more staff, blood products, medicine, etc] to help the surgeon perform the task at hand. I call your family and friends so they know what is going on in the operating suite.

If you are scared, I'll hold your hand and I'll listen to everything you say without judging. My job is to be there, for you. I will be there, when you wake up, to say that you're all done...I might also shout to take some deep breaths and to open your eyes ;)

I love my job. I love being a nurse. I can make a difference, and I know I do. I've been kicking the idea of a missions/MSF since nursing school, and let me tell you, the urge is as strong as ever [although I should probably get my passport before applying]. Doctors Without Borders [MSF] is doing amazing humanitarian work in various African nations, Sri Lanka, Haiti, Pakistan, and so many other places devastated by natural and man-made disasters. I preach that everyone should have access to healthcare, and they are doing just that.

So what is stopping me? Fear of the unknown, no doubt. In exploring spirituality, I'm finding that my ego is the biggest stumbling block. The ego says, "No, everything is fine this way. No problems. Nothing scary." And that's exactly how you get stuck in one place; how you end up living life satisfied with not necessarily mediocrity, but certainly a sense of safety and a maintenance of the status quo. Ohh, and do I dislike the status quo! Nothing ever gets accomplished when all you do is keep things on an even keel.

I know the answer to my question is to just do it. Take the plunge, full speed ahead, fire the torpedoes! I don't know if I'm ready for that yet. My contributions might be limited to monetary donations right now. Eventually though, you can be sure. I'm going to do it.

peace and love,

m