Working in a health care system, you would think that I would be used to the run arounds, insensitivity, and trial and error. In a world with technology at our disposal, one would think health care would be more streamlined. I will NOT go into my health issues on this blog. However I would like to share my experience.
I am never sick. Never. If I am, it's tonsillitis, strep throat, something of that nature. I drastically need to have my tonsils removed. I had golfball sized looking tonsils covered in white in early July. Other than that, I'm healthy as a horse. I've had some persisting health issues that have lingered and worsened since my treatment. The doctor agrees something is obviously and very seriously wrong after todays appointment.
Issues: I started a new job on August 22nd. When does my insurance start? October 1st. The last day at my old job was August 16th. Full monthly paid premium. However insurance terms on last day of employment. How does that work? So you mean I paid for a full month of premium for insurance, but if I want coverage, I have to buy a cobra policy that is . . . . hold on to your seats $427.00 for 30 days. Uhhhhh thanks, but no thanks. I decided in mid August not to go to the doctor under my old insurance due to them saying I would likely have to have many tests ran that would not able to be scheduled prior to my last insurance date. So I waited until things got worse and decided I better get to the doctor.
In a world where people who do not work have free health care, or go to appointments and just do not pay bills (an issue that I for the most part don't pay much attention too, knowing full well that I should), I am now responsible for these medical bills non-billable to any insurance. This is beyond frustrating but at the expense of my health, it's important to take care of these issues. Mostly so I can feel well again prior to going to Texas.
Issue 2: Insensitivity. Confidentiality. After initially meeting with the nurse (who I might add was orienting another new nurse that made this appointment last twice as long when they already knew I was new at my job, and did not ask permission for two nurses to be in the room) and meeting with the doctor, I then met with another nurse to discuss some tests. She left the door open. Open. With direct sight and ear shot to the waiting room. Another issue arose of things she asked me to take to the hospital. I had approximately 5 things I needed to take. I asked her for a bag. She said "Uhhhhh I don't think we have anything." She then proceeded to hand me a plastic STAPLES bag that someone had brought their lunch in with to carry these things through the waiting room. Sigh.
Without getting into much detail, these issues have drastically taken a toll on my energy level, self esteem, and every single aspect of my life. I am hoping to have this behind me as I started a medication regiment today. With of course strict directions to NOT drink alcoholic beverages. Doc used the words "antibuse like reaction . . . you'll be sicker than a dog." Oh well. Not the worst thing to give up. Will be a great start to healthy, clean living life that I'm slowly attempting to get underway. Anyways, this whole experience today upset me to the point of tears. How did we get so insensitive in our culture that at a doctors office we can't provide compassion and sensitivity to those who are ailing. I believe in the direct reflection of events in our life in order to be able to learn and make ourselves better. I'll be reminded when dealing with ANY issue with any resident at my current job. One thing I really love about my current place of employment is the amount of OVER-sensitivy they place on confidentiality, compassion, and kind gestures. I couldn't be more happy to work for a culture that embraces this.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Diary of a Newly Anointed Military Girlfriend
If you think this post is going to be about me blabbing about how sad it is or how much I cry. . . . You're wrong. However, I can't say some of that won't be sprinkled in between.
When Aron signed up for the National Guard, I thought he would race around the world raising American Flags at national disaster sites. I didn't know there was chance of active deployment, combat training, and longs leaves. Aron was actually a lot smarter than I gave him credit for by not informing me of everything they have to do at basic training. He knew if he told me that I would have stood in front of that airport door and not let him go. Lucky for him, I found out after he got on the plane. For example: Week 4, which is next week. They get fitted for their gas mask. Then they get filed into a room ten at a time that is pumped full of gas, and have to take off their gas mask, give their reporting statement, and walk out of the room. . . . . . . Uhhhhhh excuse me??? Did you just say my boyfriend will be taking his what off???? In a room full of huh? Yah.
I made some promises I haven't been very good at keeping to him before he left. Like the promise that if he was going to be working hard, pushing his limits, so was I. Man I really, really, really lack self discipline. If there is one character flaw I wish I could gain more than anything, it would be self discipline. I give into myself, obstacles, not meeting goals, entirely too easily. Aron is busting his tail. And I have ran, a handful of times. Since moving back home, I've attempted to refocus myself. In order for Aron and I to get to spend Sunday off base at his graduation after his parents leave, he has to earn honors status. Which is a long list of things, that I will not be disappointed or any less proud if he does not accomplish. One requirement is he has to run his mile and a half in under 9 minutes. 9. Minutes. That's a 6 minute mile. So I told him if he was going to work towards that, that I would work towards the girls honor status. Which is a mile and a half in 12 minutes. Right now I'm at 15:04. So I better keep working. We are not quite halfway through my being able to see him, so I better work a little harder.
However . . . to the main point. It's so strange to talk to Aron on the phone. We've never been much of a phone talking relationship type people. Now, that's all I get. Approximately once a week. A fifteen minute phone call. In my most recent phone call last night, he already sounds like a different person. He speaks more maturely, sounds so responsible, and is very task oriented. My fear, that I'm not longer good enough. I'm not sure when or where this crazy idea crept into my head, but it came storming to the forefront last night. He is so driven, being held so accountable, and here I am on day two of giving up pop, drinking a diet mt. dew. What is wrong with me? I have severely gotten off track with desire and drive to attain goals. Somewhere along the way, I just stopped caring about achieving pretty much anything other than academic or occupational success.
When I see Aron for the first time in 8 weeks, many websites, research say that after basic training, he will look different. Much different. And I don't want the opportunity to slip through my hands to provide him with the same experience. I've been attempting to lose weight for almost well . . . all my life. However, this is the one and only chance I will ever get to make a second first impression. And I really don't want to mess this up for us. I know Aron loves me and cares about me with all his heart and he doesn't care about what I look like after 8 weeks. But I just want him to be as proud of me as I am of him.
When Aron signed up for the National Guard, I thought he would race around the world raising American Flags at national disaster sites. I didn't know there was chance of active deployment, combat training, and longs leaves. Aron was actually a lot smarter than I gave him credit for by not informing me of everything they have to do at basic training. He knew if he told me that I would have stood in front of that airport door and not let him go. Lucky for him, I found out after he got on the plane. For example: Week 4, which is next week. They get fitted for their gas mask. Then they get filed into a room ten at a time that is pumped full of gas, and have to take off their gas mask, give their reporting statement, and walk out of the room. . . . . . . Uhhhhhh excuse me??? Did you just say my boyfriend will be taking his what off???? In a room full of huh? Yah.
I made some promises I haven't been very good at keeping to him before he left. Like the promise that if he was going to be working hard, pushing his limits, so was I. Man I really, really, really lack self discipline. If there is one character flaw I wish I could gain more than anything, it would be self discipline. I give into myself, obstacles, not meeting goals, entirely too easily. Aron is busting his tail. And I have ran, a handful of times. Since moving back home, I've attempted to refocus myself. In order for Aron and I to get to spend Sunday off base at his graduation after his parents leave, he has to earn honors status. Which is a long list of things, that I will not be disappointed or any less proud if he does not accomplish. One requirement is he has to run his mile and a half in under 9 minutes. 9. Minutes. That's a 6 minute mile. So I told him if he was going to work towards that, that I would work towards the girls honor status. Which is a mile and a half in 12 minutes. Right now I'm at 15:04. So I better keep working. We are not quite halfway through my being able to see him, so I better work a little harder.
However . . . to the main point. It's so strange to talk to Aron on the phone. We've never been much of a phone talking relationship type people. Now, that's all I get. Approximately once a week. A fifteen minute phone call. In my most recent phone call last night, he already sounds like a different person. He speaks more maturely, sounds so responsible, and is very task oriented. My fear, that I'm not longer good enough. I'm not sure when or where this crazy idea crept into my head, but it came storming to the forefront last night. He is so driven, being held so accountable, and here I am on day two of giving up pop, drinking a diet mt. dew. What is wrong with me? I have severely gotten off track with desire and drive to attain goals. Somewhere along the way, I just stopped caring about achieving pretty much anything other than academic or occupational success.
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| Aron walking onto his plane. |
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| Aron and I goofing around after some peanut butter milkshakes two days before he left. Yes he has on my necklace and he had recently made me laugh. This is right before he attempted to lick my face. |
Why Hello Again.
After a hiatus due to my computer having a virus and the lack of internet at my apartment, I'm back. With both a new computer and internet at my housing location (more on that later). Today will hopefully be a double post. Some of you could care less . . . Others of you (like Mike Saad) will be tremendously overjoyed that my blogging is back. Get excited people. My first post will be a quick update. My second post, will be attempts at something a little more philosophical that's been going on in my life lately.
Where to begin. The long and short of it. Since January (until now) I had been searching for a job relatively close to my field near my hometown. In attempts to be closer to family, future life goals, and relationships, it was just the right thing to do. In July I was offered a full time position as the Director of a 30 bed memory care assisted living approximately an hour from my home. After last years excursion of driving two hours one way, to and from work each day, I figured an hour would be cake. The decision on whether I will look for a home halfway between work and home (where my family and friends are) is still up in the air. Mostly this will be a joint decision between me and whoever the lucky fella I decide to spend my life with is. This job is exciting, carries more responsibility, and room for growth. It is with a company I feel values it's employees and utilizes (and has) the resources necessary to provide adequate and compassionate care to the elderly. I am beyond excited to get started.
Therefore I have moved back home. In with my parents. Which has it's positives and negatives. Lets just go with the positives for now. Paying off bills and saving money. There are two things in the world that worry me. Weight and money. The opportunity to pay off things I have wanted to pay off for sometime is thrilling. It's like a weight lifted off my shoulders. Many people do not know the weight or worry of not being able to pay bills and for those of you who don't, just take my word for it. For those of you who do, you know what I'm talking about.
On July 31st, I dropped Aron off at the airport to head to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX for 8 weeks of basic military training. Our one year anniversary of the day we met was August 6th. This has been a trying experience thus far, 3 weeks in, but slowly day by day time passes and we get closer and closer to seeing each other. After these 8 weeks he will be in Keesler, Mississippi for 3 months of AIT training, however the contact and communication restrictions are much less. More of this process in a later post. However, it has none the less been a major part of my life the past couple of weeks.
My father continues to deal with multiple surgeries, doctors, and appointments, in order to get himself put back together. He is making progress, despite his beliefs. He has been appropriately renamed "Humpty Dumpty."
With all the change that has gone on in my life, one thing is for sure. I continue to feel like the most blessed and luckiest girl in the whole world. It's amazing how perspective changes most everything in your life.
Where to begin. The long and short of it. Since January (until now) I had been searching for a job relatively close to my field near my hometown. In attempts to be closer to family, future life goals, and relationships, it was just the right thing to do. In July I was offered a full time position as the Director of a 30 bed memory care assisted living approximately an hour from my home. After last years excursion of driving two hours one way, to and from work each day, I figured an hour would be cake. The decision on whether I will look for a home halfway between work and home (where my family and friends are) is still up in the air. Mostly this will be a joint decision between me and whoever the lucky fella I decide to spend my life with is. This job is exciting, carries more responsibility, and room for growth. It is with a company I feel values it's employees and utilizes (and has) the resources necessary to provide adequate and compassionate care to the elderly. I am beyond excited to get started.
Therefore I have moved back home. In with my parents. Which has it's positives and negatives. Lets just go with the positives for now. Paying off bills and saving money. There are two things in the world that worry me. Weight and money. The opportunity to pay off things I have wanted to pay off for sometime is thrilling. It's like a weight lifted off my shoulders. Many people do not know the weight or worry of not being able to pay bills and for those of you who don't, just take my word for it. For those of you who do, you know what I'm talking about.
On July 31st, I dropped Aron off at the airport to head to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX for 8 weeks of basic military training. Our one year anniversary of the day we met was August 6th. This has been a trying experience thus far, 3 weeks in, but slowly day by day time passes and we get closer and closer to seeing each other. After these 8 weeks he will be in Keesler, Mississippi for 3 months of AIT training, however the contact and communication restrictions are much less. More of this process in a later post. However, it has none the less been a major part of my life the past couple of weeks.
My father continues to deal with multiple surgeries, doctors, and appointments, in order to get himself put back together. He is making progress, despite his beliefs. He has been appropriately renamed "Humpty Dumpty."
With all the change that has gone on in my life, one thing is for sure. I continue to feel like the most blessed and luckiest girl in the whole world. It's amazing how perspective changes most everything in your life.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Whoa . . . Stop the stress train I want off.
I have been the wonderful beneficiary of new found happiness and grace since that fateful day in July. My life has been filled with wonderful gifts of smiles, good feelings, and a carefree mind.
Until last week.
All those dreaded feelings that I used to feel came FLOODING back. I was overworked, stressed, short tempered, and over-all an A1 grouch. I'm questioning whether I had a right. I blamed it all on the situation with my Dad. He had an unfortunate accident where he was attempting to fix a tree stand, and fell approximately 20 feet, breaking his leg in 3 places (above and below the knee) and his shoulder. The most traumatic part for me personally, was when his hunting buddies could not get a hold of my mother, they called me. I've never received a phone call like that before. A care flight landed close to where he was in the woods, and brought him to Grant Hospital. So needless to say, I was the first person in the waiting room. What a shocking experience. I've never been in an emergency room waiting room with someone after a critical accident as such. My sisters have been in critical accidents, but I was too young to be involved. Not only was the critical part scary, but it was my Dad. A man who has protected me, taught me what I deserve, challenged me, and shown me what being a good husband and Father is all about. He's an A+ guy in my book. My existential crisis began.
My mind began to race in the waiting room. What would I do without my Dad? Who would be there to guard and protect me? Who would have my back? Who would push me to become a better person? Who would give me away at my wedding? Who would be there to be a Papa for my kids? I had to put an immediate stop to these racing thoughts. Over the next two days, I spent my days at Grant Hospital. To the few friends I told, I complained mostly about the uproot in my schedule. I have some things that are very important to me (getting into shape, not getting behind at work) and those all went out the window. I felt a 50 pound weight descend on my chest. With family in and out of town, a sister staying with me a few nights, no gym time to relax my troubled mind, and evenings spent in a hospital, I resolved that things had to change. Icing on the cake, would end up being, my mother being taken from Grant to Coldwater Emergency room due to a sciatic nerve flare up. My existential crisis continued.
What would I do without my mother? My mother is the rock, the glue that holds us all together. Who would I talk to? Who would I confide in? Who would be there to listen to me cry over something stupid? Who would call me 15 times a day just to say "Who bugs you more than me?" I've thought of the fact of losing my parents before. I've become resolute in the fact that someone will have to dress me, physically carry me, and puppeteer me as I remain in a numbed daze.
As work becomes more stressful, and the realization that my parents need me, I feel Gods strong push to be closer to them. I've known this for a long time. After a perfect weekend with Aron, like they all usually are, after he left, I was sad. Not just because he had left, but because everything that I care so much about . . . is so far away. Work has become troublesome. While I love my job and love the residents, I can not continue to work for a facility that does not value direct caregivers. I can't continue to spew false information about care that is just not happening. My friends are growing older, wiser, married and babying children. I've questioned recently, what is connecting me to my place here?
I've realized that the relationships I have with my parents, is that of irreplaceable importance. I don't know where I will go for the values and morals they supply me, if I ever were to lose them. I am a person who needs reassurance, encouragement, challenges. I need someone to tell me things will be ok, that I'm a valuable person, and that I have a good head on my shoulders. Other than my Mom and Dad, I don't have those kind of people in my life. But does anyone? Do we compliment each other any more? Do we tell people what we appreciate about them? Do we tell people their importance to us on a daily basis? I make a personal effort to let people know they're important to me. I want to be present with the people who are around me. I want to be. there. in that exact moment with them.
So were those flooding feelings stress? Existential crisis? Or realization? My work is cut out for me to tie up many loose ends currently happening in my life. However, I'm not quite sure what the next one is after that. And maybe that in the end is what a worried about, when all arrows point in one direction. A direction, I haven't been reassured about.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
2011 in closing
2011. Wow. What a year. (very cliche way to start off an end of the year blog, I know, but true) If someone had told me January 1st, 2011 that this would be my life a year later, I never would have believed them. The year started off rocky, and of course got a little rockier. But sometimes, as many will say, you have to hit bottom before you can climb back up.
The most amazing part of this year happened in July. On a balcony in Myrtle Beach I discovered how much abounding love God truly has for me. My life has been forever changed by that single moment. It has been the basis for my happiness. Happiness that is not found in someone or something else. The happiness that I have found is truly from within. The peace in which I found in all my troubles have disappeared. It's almost as if there are no more troubles in life that I can't walk through with my head held high. With happiness and faith in God, I know Plan A is right on track, and he has amazing plans for me. I have learned so much through my time spent reading the bible. Phrases, meanings, verses that have continued to renew my faith day in and day out. My explanation and lack of words to describe the transformation my soul has made since that day does not do the experience justice. I've never in my life felt more internal happiness in my life. My life has been filled with laughter, smiles, friendship, grace, and love. My relationship with God has been renewed, but also with my family and some really amazing friends.
I've also had the opportunity to grow in my career. As I embark on 2012, I will be looking to take my independent licensure exam. I will also be looking for new career opportunities, that continue to challenge me both personally and professionally. My career at Columbus Alzheimer's has blessed me with flexibility, insight, and lots of challenges.
And even when things were falling into place and I was smiling from the inside, God gave me a nice layer of icing on my cake. Aron has been a wonderful addition to my life. He reflects all the happiness, smiles, and laughter that is so strongly at the center of who I am. Our relationship continues to embody the balance I wish to have in my life of feeling cared about and maintaining my own independence.
This year wouldn't have been complete without Miss Natalie Edwards, leaving Charlotte and moving back to Columbus. She continues to remain to be the other of me on some days. She has shared many a drink, heart to heart, and gone through many life's lessons with me. Also, Miss Kala Andrews who saw a girl in need and invited me on that fateful trip to Myrtle has continued to be a beacon of light in my life. When I feel myself beginning to lose my light, she quickly reminds me that "Giiirrrrllllll, His plan for you is SO good." I look forward to our continued friendship. Though Mr. Shawn Collier has spent his year very busy, and with his wonderful girlfriend India, he continues to be a mainstay in my social calender, for laughs, and a reality check. His expanded social circle also brought light to one Miss Erin Hackett, who continues to get me into trouble, share a drink, and smell good. While some of my friendships have grown deeper roots, and other new friendships have taken into full bloom, I know God has redeemed any amount of pain I felt in the first months of this year.
I wouldn't trade 2011 for the world. I say again, there are no words to explain the amount of gratitude I feel to be so amazingly blessed by all of you. I will end with a bible verse that keeps me grounded, and not taking things for granted.
Luke 8: 18 - Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.
May the Chapter of 2011 forever be closed. And may my 2012 be half as blessed as I am right this very moment. I wish all my friends peace, happiness, and gratitude in the coming year :)
The most amazing part of this year happened in July. On a balcony in Myrtle Beach I discovered how much abounding love God truly has for me. My life has been forever changed by that single moment. It has been the basis for my happiness. Happiness that is not found in someone or something else. The happiness that I have found is truly from within. The peace in which I found in all my troubles have disappeared. It's almost as if there are no more troubles in life that I can't walk through with my head held high. With happiness and faith in God, I know Plan A is right on track, and he has amazing plans for me. I have learned so much through my time spent reading the bible. Phrases, meanings, verses that have continued to renew my faith day in and day out. My explanation and lack of words to describe the transformation my soul has made since that day does not do the experience justice. I've never in my life felt more internal happiness in my life. My life has been filled with laughter, smiles, friendship, grace, and love. My relationship with God has been renewed, but also with my family and some really amazing friends.
I've also had the opportunity to grow in my career. As I embark on 2012, I will be looking to take my independent licensure exam. I will also be looking for new career opportunities, that continue to challenge me both personally and professionally. My career at Columbus Alzheimer's has blessed me with flexibility, insight, and lots of challenges.
And even when things were falling into place and I was smiling from the inside, God gave me a nice layer of icing on my cake. Aron has been a wonderful addition to my life. He reflects all the happiness, smiles, and laughter that is so strongly at the center of who I am. Our relationship continues to embody the balance I wish to have in my life of feeling cared about and maintaining my own independence.
This year wouldn't have been complete without Miss Natalie Edwards, leaving Charlotte and moving back to Columbus. She continues to remain to be the other of me on some days. She has shared many a drink, heart to heart, and gone through many life's lessons with me. Also, Miss Kala Andrews who saw a girl in need and invited me on that fateful trip to Myrtle has continued to be a beacon of light in my life. When I feel myself beginning to lose my light, she quickly reminds me that "Giiirrrrllllll, His plan for you is SO good." I look forward to our continued friendship. Though Mr. Shawn Collier has spent his year very busy, and with his wonderful girlfriend India, he continues to be a mainstay in my social calender, for laughs, and a reality check. His expanded social circle also brought light to one Miss Erin Hackett, who continues to get me into trouble, share a drink, and smell good. While some of my friendships have grown deeper roots, and other new friendships have taken into full bloom, I know God has redeemed any amount of pain I felt in the first months of this year.
I wouldn't trade 2011 for the world. I say again, there are no words to explain the amount of gratitude I feel to be so amazingly blessed by all of you. I will end with a bible verse that keeps me grounded, and not taking things for granted.
Luke 8: 18 - Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.
May the Chapter of 2011 forever be closed. And may my 2012 be half as blessed as I am right this very moment. I wish all my friends peace, happiness, and gratitude in the coming year :)
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Sarah
On my drive home from work tonite, after a LONG day at work, I was thinking about all the things to blog about. How it all tied together in this growing dichotomy building inside me. Now time has gotten away from me so this may be rather short and sporadic.
With the holiday season being upon us, I'm trying so hard to stay positive. Yet I constantly struggle with driving home to an empty apartment. Due to my crazy busy work schedule and responsibilities outside of work, my beloved little puggle has gone to stay with Grandma and Grandpa for the winter. It's amazing how much enjoyment my 4 legged little BooBoo's brought me. This growing discontentment was recently magnified by what I feel was letting this job opportunity slip through my hands. It's hard for me to put into words how disappointed I am by this. Disappointment has not been a feeling I've had the unwonderful pleasure of knowing much in my life. I have generally tended to believe that my destiny is in my hands and ultimately control the outcome. I've worked hard for everything I have and in this instance, my experience and ability to convey my aptitude for this position just simply did not overcome that of someone else. I didn't let too many people know that I had this opportunity for this specific reason. I don't think people these days know how to console one another. In this particular instance, I just decided to rededicate myself back to my work, and assure myself that another "perfect" opportunity such as this one, would come along at a much better time.
I don't think people these days know how to console one another. I cried with my first family member today. I have been at my job now for 2 years and have never cried in front of a family member within the confines of CACC. Or in the parking lot. But today I did. One of my favorite family members, is in the process of losing her husband. This particular resident and I did not have an exceptional relationship, but we had a good relationship none the less. But I much enjoyed my relationship with his wife on her visits. Every time I was with this resident, and his wife came to visit, the instant he saw her face, his face lit up like nothing I had ever seen. He smiled, would hug her, and would immediately take her hand. He would look at me, smiling, look back at her, and you just knew that they had had a lifetime of love together. I hope his wife can remember that in the coming days. Today my heart broke for her. She's been so strong, caring for him, for a long time. She is about to lose the physical presence of her best friend. The only comforting words I had for her were, John 14:1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God. Believe also in me. My Fathers house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going." I hope this gives her some peace.
On a similarly religious and work affiliated note. Both my favorite resident and I, the past week had been suffering from bad colds. (No wonder I got sick) He has not been in my office, or even out of his room much last week, nor had I had my door open to my office much due to my own germs and tolerance. Today we were both feeling much better. After catching up and talking about his baby sister and how I am as well the youngest. He said to me, "Well I can tell you that your parents did one thing right. They raised you up in the way of the Lord. And let me tell you, I have been watching you, and they have done a fine job." My heart was filled with gladness. Just the night before in the book I am currently reading, I was fixated on this passage:
"What will people remember us for? Are other people's lives better because we lived? Did we make a difference? Did we use to the fullest the gifts and abilities God gave us? Did we give our best effort and did we do it for the right reasons?
God's definition of success is really one of significance - the significant difference our lives can make in the lives of others. The significant doesn't show up in win-loss records, long resumes, or the trophies gathering dust on our mantels. It's found in the hearts and lives of those we've come across who are in some way better because of the way we lived."
As I fell asleep last night, I wondered. How have I been living my life? Have I been doing it for the right reasons? Have I been using my gifts and abilities God gave me to the fullest? Heck . . . . what even ARE the gifts and abilities God gave me? Have I impacted anyone's life? Has anyone been better because I have lived? It truly made me question my motives in my life. I've recently been focused on Peter 3:4 recently. I've been focusing on having a "quiet and gentle spirit." God likens it to the spirit of Sarah, Abraham's wife. At work today, I focused on being very productive catching up on my paperwork, so that in the future, when given the opportunity, I can take the time to truly be use my abilities to the fullest. I think my residents comment to me, was God's encouragement that I have, but there are avenues where I can be better.
Though I've been a little discouraged lately, I'm hoping it's likely due to the fact I've been cold/flu sick. I'm hoping with my increasing health my mood improves as well. This holiday season is filled with such gladness, I don't want to miss out on the opportunity to spend some incredible moments with people I truly care about both old and new.
With the holiday season being upon us, I'm trying so hard to stay positive. Yet I constantly struggle with driving home to an empty apartment. Due to my crazy busy work schedule and responsibilities outside of work, my beloved little puggle has gone to stay with Grandma and Grandpa for the winter. It's amazing how much enjoyment my 4 legged little BooBoo's brought me. This growing discontentment was recently magnified by what I feel was letting this job opportunity slip through my hands. It's hard for me to put into words how disappointed I am by this. Disappointment has not been a feeling I've had the unwonderful pleasure of knowing much in my life. I have generally tended to believe that my destiny is in my hands and ultimately control the outcome. I've worked hard for everything I have and in this instance, my experience and ability to convey my aptitude for this position just simply did not overcome that of someone else. I didn't let too many people know that I had this opportunity for this specific reason. I don't think people these days know how to console one another. In this particular instance, I just decided to rededicate myself back to my work, and assure myself that another "perfect" opportunity such as this one, would come along at a much better time.
I don't think people these days know how to console one another. I cried with my first family member today. I have been at my job now for 2 years and have never cried in front of a family member within the confines of CACC. Or in the parking lot. But today I did. One of my favorite family members, is in the process of losing her husband. This particular resident and I did not have an exceptional relationship, but we had a good relationship none the less. But I much enjoyed my relationship with his wife on her visits. Every time I was with this resident, and his wife came to visit, the instant he saw her face, his face lit up like nothing I had ever seen. He smiled, would hug her, and would immediately take her hand. He would look at me, smiling, look back at her, and you just knew that they had had a lifetime of love together. I hope his wife can remember that in the coming days. Today my heart broke for her. She's been so strong, caring for him, for a long time. She is about to lose the physical presence of her best friend. The only comforting words I had for her were, John 14:1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God. Believe also in me. My Fathers house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going." I hope this gives her some peace.
On a similarly religious and work affiliated note. Both my favorite resident and I, the past week had been suffering from bad colds. (No wonder I got sick) He has not been in my office, or even out of his room much last week, nor had I had my door open to my office much due to my own germs and tolerance. Today we were both feeling much better. After catching up and talking about his baby sister and how I am as well the youngest. He said to me, "Well I can tell you that your parents did one thing right. They raised you up in the way of the Lord. And let me tell you, I have been watching you, and they have done a fine job." My heart was filled with gladness. Just the night before in the book I am currently reading, I was fixated on this passage:
"What will people remember us for? Are other people's lives better because we lived? Did we make a difference? Did we use to the fullest the gifts and abilities God gave us? Did we give our best effort and did we do it for the right reasons?
God's definition of success is really one of significance - the significant difference our lives can make in the lives of others. The significant doesn't show up in win-loss records, long resumes, or the trophies gathering dust on our mantels. It's found in the hearts and lives of those we've come across who are in some way better because of the way we lived."
As I fell asleep last night, I wondered. How have I been living my life? Have I been doing it for the right reasons? Have I been using my gifts and abilities God gave me to the fullest? Heck . . . . what even ARE the gifts and abilities God gave me? Have I impacted anyone's life? Has anyone been better because I have lived? It truly made me question my motives in my life. I've recently been focused on Peter 3:4 recently. I've been focusing on having a "quiet and gentle spirit." God likens it to the spirit of Sarah, Abraham's wife. At work today, I focused on being very productive catching up on my paperwork, so that in the future, when given the opportunity, I can take the time to truly be use my abilities to the fullest. I think my residents comment to me, was God's encouragement that I have, but there are avenues where I can be better.
Though I've been a little discouraged lately, I'm hoping it's likely due to the fact I've been cold/flu sick. I'm hoping with my increasing health my mood improves as well. This holiday season is filled with such gladness, I don't want to miss out on the opportunity to spend some incredible moments with people I truly care about both old and new.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Change
There are times in my life when I get the overwhelming feeling that I'm on the verge of big change. I always likened it to if I was standing on the edge of a big cliff. The open, risky feeling you feel just by standing there, and having such confidence in knowing that if you jumped, you just know you'd fly. I remember this same feeling the summer of 2009. It's this sense of knowing that what I have right now, won't ever be again. While, I know that's true of every day life, it's a larger sense of knowing that the comfortable place my life is at, isn't going to be so comfortable in the future. That things are about to change in a big way. I have never liked change, and I think this "sense" or "feeling" is God's way of preparing me. Saying . . . "Get ready, girl."
All of the changes that have happened in my life have been good. I've never had a single big change that I've regretted, or I haven't come out the other side a better person. I know that this change will bring the same. I was on the treadmill today putting in a couple miles and I almost started crying. I felt someone saying to me that my family needs me. Ms. Brady told me a while ago about these messages she hears from God, and I wasn't completely sold on it. I wasn't sure what this voice was, or how I would know it was Him. But I heard it again. I remember this summer when I was at home for two months. It was the most peaceful time in my life. I was able to take walks with my sisters, have talks with my Mom, and morning coffee with my Dad. I was able to see my nephews soccer games, help my niece remove a years worth of stickers off her art desk, and be around for my newborn little Godson.
While I don't need to get ahead of myself, I'm being faced with the potential of being at home again. While now more stable and on my feet again, I'm not sure if that's what I want. But I know I would be missing out. I know the opportunity that lays before me, if granted to me, is not one I could sensibly pass up. Do I choose sensibility or do I choose comfortability? My life here in Columbus is "comfortable." I go to my job, I go to the gym, I have friends I can meet for dinner or Happy hour. I have girlfriends and guy friends who are a regular part of my sanity. I have a wonderful apartment. BUT . . . . (There is always a BUT when talking about Columbus. The but, when talking about home is always much smaller).
I never dread driving home. I always dread the drive back to Columbus. Someone said to be . . "Well that's because you have to go to work." After thinking about it, I don't think that's it. I love the structure the work week brings. I love my job. I love my residents. I love feeling like I've contributed to society. So why do I dread the drive back to Columbus? I think it's because those that hold my heart together, are just so far away.
I would hope that if I ever decided to move back home that the people have brought me such great revelation would stay connected with me, to make sure that I don't lose sight of what's important in life. I don't think God would have presented me with this opportunity, or lined things up so beautifully if he didn't want this for me. I guess I will just have to wait to find out. Until then, I will stand with my toes curled over the edge of that big cliff, waiting to see if this is the next big change.
All of the changes that have happened in my life have been good. I've never had a single big change that I've regretted, or I haven't come out the other side a better person. I know that this change will bring the same. I was on the treadmill today putting in a couple miles and I almost started crying. I felt someone saying to me that my family needs me. Ms. Brady told me a while ago about these messages she hears from God, and I wasn't completely sold on it. I wasn't sure what this voice was, or how I would know it was Him. But I heard it again. I remember this summer when I was at home for two months. It was the most peaceful time in my life. I was able to take walks with my sisters, have talks with my Mom, and morning coffee with my Dad. I was able to see my nephews soccer games, help my niece remove a years worth of stickers off her art desk, and be around for my newborn little Godson.
While I don't need to get ahead of myself, I'm being faced with the potential of being at home again. While now more stable and on my feet again, I'm not sure if that's what I want. But I know I would be missing out. I know the opportunity that lays before me, if granted to me, is not one I could sensibly pass up. Do I choose sensibility or do I choose comfortability? My life here in Columbus is "comfortable." I go to my job, I go to the gym, I have friends I can meet for dinner or Happy hour. I have girlfriends and guy friends who are a regular part of my sanity. I have a wonderful apartment. BUT . . . . (There is always a BUT when talking about Columbus. The but, when talking about home is always much smaller).
I never dread driving home. I always dread the drive back to Columbus. Someone said to be . . "Well that's because you have to go to work." After thinking about it, I don't think that's it. I love the structure the work week brings. I love my job. I love my residents. I love feeling like I've contributed to society. So why do I dread the drive back to Columbus? I think it's because those that hold my heart together, are just so far away.
I would hope that if I ever decided to move back home that the people have brought me such great revelation would stay connected with me, to make sure that I don't lose sight of what's important in life. I don't think God would have presented me with this opportunity, or lined things up so beautifully if he didn't want this for me. I guess I will just have to wait to find out. Until then, I will stand with my toes curled over the edge of that big cliff, waiting to see if this is the next big change.
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