This is nurse's week, and I have to say it is nice to be celebrated. A little appreciation goes a long way and I love to know that what I do makes a difference in your life. This year, nurses week is a little extra special for me because, come August, I mark 10 years since I passed the dreaded NCLEX exam and could write "RN" behind my name for the first time. But as I think about what it means to be a nurse and what makes nursing unique among professions, I realized that it is you, my patients, who make this career so special.
Little do you know that you have given to me more than I have ever given to you. It is interesting that I know so many of the intimate details of your existence, down to how many times you've peed in the past 24 hours, and you know so little about me. I know about your blood counts, your (sometimes embarrassing) family dynamics, what makes you feel good, and how to trick you into eating. I've listened to you vent about your fears and frustrations, and offered as much hope and comfort as I could give. I've shared my knowledge and spent time teaching and reteaching you (trust me, that CPR video does not become more exciting with each re-watch!). I've stayed late at work, worked extra shifts, and eaten M&M's for lunch more times than I'm proud of so that you would have excellent care. Although it is sometimes very hard to roll out of bed at 5am to come spend the day with you, you need to know that it really is a pleasure to serve you.
They called it "therapeutic relationship" in nursing school - this giving of self without expecting anything in return - but they never explained that through this giving it is the nurse who can grow and heal in unexpected ways.
You've taught me that hardships are simply challenges to be overcome and that even the biggest poop explosion can be cleaned up. On days when I've felt unwanted and as plain as the dust under my feet, you made me feel special by asking me to be your primary.That genuine first smile came at a time when I needed some brightness, and your invitation to play living-room-floor baseball years ago healed my broken heart in ways you never could imagine. You've shown me the miracles that dedicated love can achieve and your implicit trust in my judgement has helped me learn to trust my own instincts. You've accepted my meager offerings of love and care, been patient with me when I've had to do painful things to you, and given me a chance to learn so many interesting things. You've taught me not to be ashamed of weakness and vulnerability, because it is through those thin places that God's glory can shine brightest.
Most importantly, caring for you has often forced me to take my focus off of myself and the petty day-to-day frustrations that sometimes threaten to overwhelm me. Thank you for allowing me into your life and giving me the chance to serve you.
You are the reason I am proud to be a nurse.
