Majority of my nursing career, so far, had very little to do with drug addiction and homelessness, but this is now a regular encounter for me in my current position.
Caring for a drug addict patient is very challenging in itself, but I also struggle with my own beliefs and values.
These patients are demanding, ungrateful and feel entitled…. the kind of attitudes that frustrates me.
Caring for the homeless, however, breaks my heart, especially the homeless veteran. They are much easier to care for and they have such a grateful attitude….
3 squares, a bed, and a TV are so much more than they’re accustomed to.
These encounters should help me be more grateful for all that I have….
But I still end up taking things for granted.
It is true…… “but for the grace of God, there goes I,” because tomorrow is not promised.
And one catastrophic event…. financial, health or mental…. have the potential to wipe us out and change the course of life as we know it.
At times we get so caught up in our struggle that we fail to appreciate the goodness around us.
But there’s always someone out there who’s less fortunate than we are.
All it takes is for us to step outside our “bubble” and take a good look around.
So this week….
Remember to be grateful, watch your attitude, be kind and reach out to someone who’s less fortunate.
From the heart of a nurse.
Have a great week!
#WalkGood
Althea
