This week has been very full. I went to five schools, visited two medical clinics and did countless health assessments. Well actually I probably could count them…but anyway, I did a lot. I’ve already told you a lot of the trial and triumphs of the week but I hadn’t realized what a toll it had taken on me until our final teaching/assessment session ended this afternoon. Once I stopped moving, I was done for. Isn’t it amazing how the momentum of the week keeps you going but when you know it’s over…that’s it. We got back to the house at about four o’clock (considerably earlier than previous days) so I considered taking a nice long walk… but when push came to shove, I just couldn’t do it. I’ve been sitting on my mattress in air-conditioned comfort, just enjoying the time when I don’t have to think about anything.
It takes a lot of energy to be a nurse, whether in the hospital or in the bushes of Africa. During our first semester of nursing school I distinctly remember my professor telling us the importance of taking care of yourself so you don’t get burned out, always caring for others. Truer words have never been spoken. I’ve had my heart strings played like a twelve-string guitar and my energy stores completely drained. I think this weekend will be a very important time for our team to recoup as we head into our last week!!
Looking back, I have no idea where the time has gone. It reminds me of a Dr Seuss quote: “How did it get so late so soon? It’s night before it’s afternoon. December’s here before its June. My goodness how the time as flewn. How did it get so late so soon?” It’s a good reminder for me to really treasure every moment as this amazing journey continues to unfold.
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