Nursing: A Journey of Realization and Gratitude

Upon reflecting on my 30 years as a nurse, I've come to realize that nursing has profoundly altered my perspective on life. It has provided me with invaluable insights into the true value of human life, the fragility of existence, and the importance of cherishing each moment.

The True Value of Life

Every day in my role as a nurse, I witness the human body's remarkable life force and its capacity for resilience. However, it is during moments of crisis, such as a code blue, that I am truly humbled by the preciousness of a beating heart. When a patient's heart fails, the importance of it is stark – nothing else matters. The act of manual resuscitation or providing breath support underscores the delicate balance of life, making each heartbeat more significant.

The pro-abortion argument that a heartbeat is merely an "electrical flutter" is both misguided and objectionable to me. Thinking about how society can trivialize life at such a fundamental level is deeply disturbing. I often reflect on the reality of life and death while nursing, wondering why those who support such positions do not empathize with the same intensity as I do in every heartbeat. Isn't the preservation of life paramount?

Unearthing Life Experiences

Before entering nursing, I may not have fully appreciated the challenges and hardships others endured in their lives. My own good health and ease in making friends left me unprepared for the daily struggles of those I care for. Nursing has taught me humility and made me more empathetic, as I see firsthand the profound impact life can have on each individual.

I am grateful for my upbringing, growing up with both of my parents who instilled in me a good, genuine attitude. This trait has been invaluable on the job, allowing me to connect with my patients and their families in a meaningful way. My experience as a nurse has not only honed my professional skills but also deepened my understanding of human nature and the complexities of life.

Professional Fulfillment and Challenges

Over three decades, nursing has transformed from a mere occupation to a calling that defines me. Early in my career, I was not driven by a dream of becoming a nurse, but rather a path that naturally presented itself. Despite the challenges, I find immense satisfaction in the work I do. Nursing is frustrating, rewarding, maddening, and magical – all within a single shift. The emotional rollercoaster that comes with caring for critically ill patients can be overwhelming, but the moments of triumph and connection with my patients make it all worthwhile.

Reflecting on my experiences, one of the most significant changes has been my perspective on mortality. As a nurse, I have witnessed the human reaction to death and the cultural mindset around it. In American society, death is often viewed as a failure, rather than a natural part of the human experience. However, from a nurse's perspective, there are no winners in the face of mortality – we all eventually face our time. After the initial shock and sadness, I have come to terms with the inevitability of death. What remains is a determination to live every day without regrets and to ensure that my own wishes are known to loved ones in case I am no longer able to make decisions for myself.

Life Advice from a Nurse

Based on my experiences, I have distilled several key lessons that I wish to share with others:

Embrace life fully and without regrets – you never know when it might be your last.

Communicate openly and honestly with family and loved ones about your wishes regarding end-of-life care. This can provide peace of mind and ensure that your wishes are honored.

Appreciate each heartbeat and cherish the precious moments you have with loved ones.

In conclusion, nursing has not only provided me with a unique perspective on life but has also instilled in me a deep appreciation for every moment. It has taught me to value human life in its entirety and to approach each day with gratitude and resolve.