Message of appreciation

Easter is a time of remembrance and thankfulness. For Christians around the world, it is a time to remember the persecution and crucifixion of Jesus, and his majestic rise from the tomb. As we remember and give thanks to Him, let us also remember one another. Let the symbolism Easter brings allow you go reflect on your own lives and practices.

I often think back to the day I was sitting in, what was to be, my final nursing class. At the time, I had no financial aid available, and no additional resources of my own to support my last semester of nursing school. As I stared at the clock, counting down the minutes I had remaining in the inevitable end of my education, I remember closing my eyes, desperately wishing for a resolution. I was a nervous wreck. About that time, the financial aid advisor pulled me out of class to tell me the news I had been dreading all day. She proceeded to inform me that there had been an "anonymous" contribution to my account, and that I could continue my final semester as planned. I was absolutely speechless (which if you know me is quite a feat). I was overcome with emotion. To this day, I do not know who made the contribution to my account that day, and I have never asked. I have also never forgotten that act of giving and faith. Although there is no direct comparison between the story of Jesus' selfless act for all of mankind, and the story I described above, I cannot help but be reminded of that day in my life. It was a selfless act of giving and placing faith in another that has changed my life. I have been truly blessed, and I will never forget that.

Since then, I vowed to myself that I will use that chance, that generous gift, to make a difference in nursing. I don't care where I'm at, or what I'm doing, I want to use my practice to help as many people as I can. If that means giving up an aspect of nursing that I hold dear to my heart, then I will do it, because I know I am doing what I am suppose to do. Whether it is being part of an initiative that has a direct impact on a large number of people, or simply one person, what I do does matter. One life can impact millions, that's why every person is important and should be afforded the opportunity to succeed.

So, I say to whomever you are...known only to me as "anonymous"...I send you my sincere appreciation and gratitude for this gift you have given me. And I thank all nurses everywhere for their service to mankind. You are truly appreciated.

Happy Easter.

Steve