Defined in the Oxford English Dictionary, grace is "courteous goodwill"; mercy is "compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm"; and peace is "mental calm, serenity." When I speak these three words together, I am describing God's grace, mercy, and peace, which comprise the central force that allows me to live, survive, and thrive in today's world. Chaos surrounds us, violence permeates our homes and streets, and corruption is at every turn. We face countless other challenges as a society and as human beings. Where does one turn for support and purpose? I have often been asked by others about who or what has been most influential in my life, usually in reference to my professional career and not necessarily personal milestones. My unwavering response is instantaneous and consistent-"God," based on my personal belief that He is my leading guide, not discounting other individuals who might be working with and through Him to move me successfully along my life path, which is ever evolving and never quite completed.
Nursing is affirmed
The American Nurses Association defines nursing as "the protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities; prevention of illness and injury; facilitation of healing; alleviation of suffering through the diagnosis and treatment of human response; and advocacy in the care of individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations."1 How does a nurse meet this standard day after day? I looked at The American Nurse, a collection of photographs of and interviews with nurses, for some insight. Nurses at all levels and in various positions participated in telling their stories through this book. In the introduction, the author writes that interviews with nurses are "rich because the people giving them don't have time to dance around words and feelings. They are just so raw."2 Several interviews resonated with me because of the nurse's talk of faith or God. Nancy Schreiber works in a night ministry in Chicago, Ill. She says, "This job gave me the freedom to get into areas like spirituality. As a nurse, we're not encouraged to talk about someone's faith. Here I find the freedom to just be myself and to acknowledge people for who they are, without the need for explanations." Judy Harrison in Lexington, Ky., works at a juvenile detention center. She says, "My grandmother made sure that all nine of her children stayed in church and that her children made sure that we all stayed in church. God was explained to me as a friend who I can talk to and depend on....Would I trade my life some days to be a greeter at Walmart? Sure I would. God and I have discussed that." And lastly, Keithen D. Potts multitasks in a public hospital in New Orleans, La. He says, "I learned a lot about myself during the storm [Hurricane Katrina]. I learned how strong I was as a person. My faith in God is what saw me through. My faith was tested, but I was able to keep standing.... I try not to let things bother me the way they did before the storm. I really learned to take it day by day and appreciate my life and the people around me." These testimonies are not unique to these three nurses-I imagine they are shared by many nurses.
Nursing is special
Interacting with patients with various personalities and multiple healthcare needs is a daily challenge. Remaining grounded at all times is important. Interpersonal interactions and relationships are driven by one's ability to know oneself and be present in the moment, to communicate effectively, and to demonstrate empathy. We pay honor to nurses worldwide every May. This year, think about what makes us what we are-special.
Jamesetta A. Newland, PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP, DPNAP, FAAN
Editor-in-Chief mailto:[email protected]
REFERENCES