I originally shared this column in 2014 during a difficult time in my life. Much of it seems appropriate to share again in this difficult time for most of us.
I remember hearing someone say, “I learn something every day and will till the day I die.” Since I can’t remember where or when, it must have been one of those times when I was talking to myself. My wife says I do that. Even if she is correct — and I’m not saying she’s not — I certainly never answer myself. But I do listen to what I say, even if no one else does.
Besides, I truly believe that statement.
Anyway, here are a few things I have learned or been reminded of in the past few weeks. It really doesn’t matter how I classify them, because if I needed to be reminded, I probably should have learned them better in the first place.
Doctors really care about the patients they treat. Most aren’t driven by money. They work long hours under a lot of expectations and stress. Many take the time to explain things over and over until patients and family members with no medical background can understand.
Nurses are unsung heroes. They care for people around the clock, and most do it with a smile. Even though it may not be good for them to get attached to those they treat, many can’t avoid it. That’s because they care. It’s easy to see. They are forgiving when patients are in pain and sometimes don’t show appreciation or get very angry. They are patient when patients hit the call button frequently. They help to maintain dignity for people who are placed in undignified or embarrassing situations.
Family members are the most important people in our lives. Regardless of how much they get annoyed with each other, when there are problems, most of them come together to assist and support.
There is no substitute for the power of prayer. Whether it’s a small group of family members or 5,000 Bernardine Franciscan nuns who spread the word, it makes a difference.
I’m not in charge. There are things out of my control. Sometimes when I am willing to accept that, things improve. Sometimes they don’t. That’s a test of my faith.
Things happen that we don’t always understand. That’s just a part of life.
Hard times in life are experiences that can make us stronger. How we handle them often serves as an example for others. We may not even know who is impacted by what we do, but our approach definitely makes a difference in a positive or negative way. So, even though it’s often difficult, I try to choose positive.
It’s amazing how far we can push ourselves when we want to or have to. Eventually, however, it catches up. That’s when we need the family members mentioned earlier.
Crises tend to cause us to review and reorder our priorities. It’s unfortunate it takes a crisis.
When you need help or support, you need to tell people or ask for it. They can’t understand or help if they aren’t aware.
Never give up hope. Sometimes when things look the darkest, new light shines. And giving up hope admits defeat before it occurs.
Technology can be a wonderful thing. It helps us to stay connected. It helps us to communicate. That can include social media. For all the bad that comes with it, there are many benefits if we choose to use it in the right way.
Snow and ice come at the most inconvenient times. I’m not sure what a convenient time would be, but since it’s another of those things I can’t control, I just have to accept it and shovel or chop.
People love to see their name in a printed newspaper. Last week, I spoke at the Seniors College at Alvernia University about the future of newspapers. During an interesting and engaging question-and-answer period, one woman asked if I planned to mention the group in my column.
I just did.
I’ve also learned that it never hurts to keep your readers happy.
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