For Sure

First day of classes and believe it or not, I was still not sure if CNA was something I wanted to do but still going through it because it is a highly sought after career here in El Paso and in many other places. But after my five hour class today, I realized that my heart beats for this...except this is in a different language since the only one I know is ministry to children and youth and those needing an advocate. This little poem, I suppose, that was given to us by the instructor is what made me realize that I will be learning a whole new language for the passion that I already have within me.

I AM A CNA

I am the one in many people's lives who provides them with their basic human needs.

I am the one who goes to great lengths to maintain patient's privacy and dignity.

I am the one they rage at, venting their frustration, anger, confusion, and fear.

I am the one who rides out the storms of my Alzheimer's patient's right alongside of them.

I am the one who tries to quell loneliness and depression in the people I care for.

I am the one who listens when no one else listens.

I am the one who validates them as a person, who ensures they know they still have great worth.

I am the one who comforts and holds the hand of my patient as they slowly slip away.

I am the one who has been there by their side, when no one else was, so they were not alone when they left this world.

I am the one who offered a prayer and words of peace, while gently stroking their head and reassuring them it was "okay to let go."

Hold your head high and realize, there is no greater calling than to provide compassion and love to those in need.

Now, for those who know me and have heard me explain my passion, is that not a different translation to what I have said before? Thanks to that poem, I realized I am heading the right way with this.

Now, the awesome thing that I have learned is that I don't have to work in nursing homes (although that wouldn't be so bad since I enjoy older people). I can work in a hospital and I can work pediatrics. I find it frightening and heart wrenching the idea of working with terminally ill children and youth, but they are part of the beating of my heart, so I think it would be an amazing fit for me.

Anyway, I have flashcards to make and 60 plus terms, as well as medical terminology, that I want to memorize.

I will keep y'all up to date on my progress in this new career path I have embarked upon. Keep me in your prayers.