How precious is life...

How precious is life. An unfortunate part of being a nurse is dealing with death. When dealing death in someone who is late in their life is so much easier than that of someone still in their youth. I came to work thinking I had to work tonight then found out that they didn't add me to the schedule. But then after I got there they ended up needing me. So I stayed to help.
One of my patient is dealing with the end of life process. I have been trying to help the family deal with what they are seeing and comfort them what little I can. What do yo say. There are no words to a father who is watching his baby girl die at 46. Or to the husband who is looking to raise an 11 and 15 year old by himself without his wife of 26 years. Every time I would speak to the father and step mom I would feel the the tears coming to my eyes. Swelling within my heart because aching for this family for the short time they had with their mom, daughter, and wife. Her dad said something about he wanted to be with her when she passed but whatever happens he knew she would be on her way to heaven.
I don't think any of us working tonight has had a dry eye. All we can do is watch and try and make her comfortable. But for me it makes me realize how lucky I am to have my wonderful children and my family. Even with all the bad I wouldn't give it up for anything. It makes you hug your kids a little tighter, treasure the laughter and the talks so much more.
Tonight I was laying down trying to take a nap before I came in and Malcolm and Cole came in and laid on my bed to tell me about their outing with their dad. Such precious moments. To listen to their feelings and worries. Malcolm had a really bad headache and literally laid across my legs. I laid there with my legs going to sleep because of the way I had them positioned. Instead of telling him to move I treasure the moment of honesty of feelings and when they were done he stood up and said mom you made my headache go away. Huh? He said just laying on your legs helped it go away. I only wish I had the power. It came back later but the relief was good.

I truly believe we encounter situations or people for a reason. Tonight was one of those situations and people in one. I was to be here to help them and them to help me reevaluate what is important in life. Life is short take a moment and smell the flowers, play with the kids, talk to a friend, make a new friend. What ever it is enjoy it.