“Listen to your father and mother who begot you, and do not despise your mother when she is old.” – Proverbs 23:22
PARENTS know best.
I found this adage suspect since my parents started meddling with my plans three years ago.
I was already pursuing a pre-law course when my parents compelled me to shift to Nursing, saying that a law career is impractical these days. I hate the idea of taking a course that does not interest me at all, but my family’s financial difficulty pressured me nonetheless.
Initially considering myself part of the bandwagon of nursing students aspiring to work abroad, I felt I was just another reluctant statistic to the ballooning number of Filipino nursing students. Proof of my lack of enthusiasm in the field was my inattention during lectures, non-participation in discussions and laziness in class activities. In fact, digesting every chapter of my three-inch-thick textbooks had become unbearable for me. I was dragging my feet to go from my dorm to my college building every morning. I lacked the zeal to finish my course until I began my duty at the UST Hospital this year.
More than applying the theories we had been taught in class, accomplishing my responsibilities in the hospital proved more rewarding to me with patients who were grateful for me simply watching over them, taking their vital signs, or lending an ear to their stories. Their need for my care helped me change my perspectives, and I receive back their love.
Once I attended to a patient with typhoid fever, a woman in her sixties. After giving her a sponge bath, I received an affirming smile from her face and a comment from her relative: “Iba talaga ang service dito.”
Having close contact with patients helped clear my doubts and gave me a broader and positive perspective of the profession I initially despised. I realized there is more to nursing, and it is not a “dirty job” I initially thought it was. I finally appreciate my parent’s encouragement in pursuing this career. By thoroughly guiding me with the choices I make, they became God’s instruments to my happiness.
One morning on my way to the hospital, the woman I gave a tepid sponge bath to called my attention that she was already discharged. She thanked me again and bade me goodbye. It was a very touching experience since I also felt the sincerity of her remark.
Today, I feel no regrets pursuing nursing. Although initially hesitant to pursue this profession, I realized that giving in to my parents’ insistence was a blessing in disguise so I can be with people I really want to serve.
PRAYER: Lord, thank You for giving me my parents who have been a living prophecy of Your goodness. I may not always understand Your plans for me but they have been the instruments of Your will. Always protect them from harm and illness, and grant them the strength and guidance they need at times of pain and trouble. Bless them and all the parents as they bring to their children Your divine presence and grace. Amen. Ramon C. Elivera, Jr.
The contributor, Ramon C. Elivera, Jr., is a junior Nursing student.
