care giving

I have to learn how to do what??

And that also??

I’m aware I’ve generally avoided these kinds of tasks. I’ve not been at all drawn to this kind of hands-on activity. Hands-on for me is art and craft making; cooking even.

Clay, pens and watercolors, and extra virgin olive oil are more likely to be my tools.

Not these. But they are my tools, for now.

Yesterday I was trained by a skilled and licensed care giver – a nurse at the hospital where I found myself. My sister underwent surgery and I had come to help. However I had not thought my help would be care giving at this level.

Well, it is what it is.

I love Arizona. The vistas and the sky enchant me. On the way to the hospital yesterday morning I was gifted with this view.

As we prepared to leave the hospital last night, contrails painted the sky.

I’ve just now read about this hospital and the organization under which it operates. Check this out:

CommonSpirit Health was founded by women religious, with a long, proud legacy of serving all people in need, especially those who’ve been made vulnerable by poverty, age, and other hardships.

This may explain why the days began with prayer as patients and healthcare providers gather for the work of healing.

While I had not thought I would be capable of learning and then actually achieving these skills, surprise! It turns out I am a somewhat, and narrowly trained, care giver.

The garden below is located just off the entrance to the hospital. It’s lovely place of respite for patients and care givers.

“The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” Isaiah 58:11

This care giver needs a Starbucks right now! I’m going to grab my patient and head out the door.