Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Janine is an ICU nurse of 30 years and loves her job. “I need to breathe in and breathe out, appreciating every moment. These babies and their families have real difficulties. I want to make sure I understand the blessings I have.”

As she works bagging her items, you can feel her intensity. There is a warmth but a purpose, a drive. We talk a little more about her joy in watching her son play sports and the balance between home and work. Janine seems to have found her flow, acknowledging the challenges and understanding the need to take care of herself. This seems to be a commonality with people I meet in the helping professions; they know the danger of giving without "filling their own cup". What do the flight attendants say before take off...make sure to put on your own oxygen mask first, before helping a child or the elderly.


Besides Janine, a couple was quick to each give me a hug. “We are going to the airport to pick up his parents from Texas. I made sure to take a couple days off of work just so I can cook for them. It has been since November that his father has come, but his mother has not been here in five years,” the woman tells me. I can see the gentleman is beaming; maybe the anticipation of his parents arrival and/or the adoring feeling he has toward his companion.

As they are leaving, they tell me about their church and how it now has virtual services everyday at 11:00 am. These gentle folks are a reminder of the kindness and compassion around us.


One quick last story about a man who is chaotic in his life, but shares his love for his new girlfriend.

A tall gentleman who is constantly looking down tells me he experiences joy when cooking. He tells me he makes a wonderful kale salad. “It is never tart, because like life, you want to have your salads be balanced with flavor and textures.” He shares some details of his life and then lights up when talking about his girlfriend. “We both love to be in nature but do not have the time now.” We share ideas for him to do, agreeing the need to spread more love now that times can be so difficult for so many. After rejecting the idea of a birdfeeder for his girlfriend, due to apartment living, he likes the suggestion of buying her a plant and hanging little hearts on the leaves with words of appreciation.

Another kind soul working hard and trying to make the best of his circumstances.
Sometimes life can seem so complex and confusing; trust, faith and a warm connection can help.

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