Master Teacher

A very long time ago, when just starting out and learning how to master the art of caring in nursing, I was extremely fearful. There was so much to remember. How does one integrate theoretical practice, pathophysiologic processes of the body, sickness… illness and therapeutic social interaction all at the same time? Overwhelming really, to think one could sort out all the variables, nuances and messiness we experience when ill and bring a cohesive and unifying strategy to an encounter that actually embraces… caresses the human soul, thereby supporting health and overall healing.

Needless to say, my first nursing experiences were less than therapeutic. Running into the bathroom and shedding not a few tears, I called out to God. “Lord Jesus, I do not want to tarnish this beautiful, shiny gold, nursing pin so recently awarded. You have lavishly blessed and brought me to this place. You have given me these charges to love and care for. I do not want to put You to shame. Help me”. And in the still of that moment, God reached down from heaven, cradled my heart, whispering gently into my mind, “I am the Master teacher. I will show you how to be a nurse. Do not despair. I am holding your heart and your hands in mine. We can only do this together”.

In greatest need, the God of grace, answers prayers. If you are in this place… at such a time, seeking your way (Isaiah 30:21), pray this Psalm, as I did. And He will quicken grace within you… enlarging your heart, giving wisdom anew and enlightening understanding (1John 5:20).

“I cling to your testimonies, O LORD; let me not be put to shame! I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart! Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart” (Psalms 119: 31-34).