We are four weeks and four days, three lectures, a final exam, and eight clinical days away from being GNs—graduate nurses. I picked up our pinning uniforms today, and Sheila, the uniform coordinator at Head to Toe Uniforms said she was heading down to main campus tomorrow to help the first years for this fall try on their clinical scrubs.
Wow. Is it me, or does it seem like just yesterday we were doing that?
I have vague memories of that day. I remember crossing paths with Becky in the bathroom, trying on the drawstring pants, which looked a darn sight better than the elasti-band pants from Landau. I remember some grumpy lady telling us during the orientation session that we’d better quit our day jobs, and my sister telling me not to freak out. I remember failing the math challenge because I failed to follow the directions.
Then there’s the first day of class. Remember, Melanie told us how we’d become friends, and study together, and help each other in clinical?
She was right. I don’t know how I would have made it through without those of you I am privileged to call my friends. And one thing I realized today: I have learned as much from each of you as I have from the nurses in the hospital and our instructors. Here’s just a sampling—and remember, even if you’re not listed here, I’ve learned something from you.
I have learned from Jenn that it is possible to read a doctor’s handwriting. I have learned from Sara, Deb, and Kim that having had a critically ill child makes you more compassionate and more appreciative of life’s little moments. I have learned from Jami that it’s possible to have a positive attitude in the face of your mother’s life-threatening illness. I learned from Carol that you can exhibit grace, peace, and great sorrow—all at the same time—when you lose a parent. I have learned from Judi and Marilyn that there is much to be said for keeping your mouth shut and listening (notice I said “learned”; I still can’t do it). I have learned from Andy that the quietest people often say the funniest things when they do talk. I learned from Becky the importance of focusing when I’m studying, and really being with my family when I’m not. (Oh, and she had good potty-training tips, too.)
I learned from everyone that we are all different but special (in a good way). I learned we all have widely varying nursing interests—and that that’s a very good thing. I learned never to underestimate someone with a goal and determination—no matter what that person’s background and talents. I learned that we are all smart, compassionate, beautiful, and strong.
Thanks for the lessons, everyone…I hope I continue to remember them as we go our separate ways.
Carry on, Angels—as registered nurses.
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