January 2009                                                                                                                                    Parish Nurse Notes

     Many of us go through life only doing the tasks set before us each day, without giving much thought to making longer-term goals.  The exception of course is in January.  January is that month when typically we decide to change something about our lifestyle that will eventually make us a better person.  I propose that instead of making a resolution to change, we first ask ourselves, “Why am I here?”

    I’m certain the answers would vary greatly.  “I have a job to do”  or  “I must support my family” or “Honestly, I never thought about that before”.  How wonderful it would be if people could answer by saying, “I have a dream and a vision.  I want to make a difference in my own life.  I want to feel the satisfaction of knowing that I am my best self.  I want to help other people.  I want to continue to learn and grow”.  “I want to make the best choice each day”.  If that was true, wouldn’t every day, just an ordinary every day,  be filled with wonder?

    I know someone who works very hard, probably 60-70 hours each week.  When asked what was most important in his life, he answered “Without a doubt, it’s my wife and children”.  Would his priorities match?

    Sometimes we need to review our personal mission statement by taking a deep breath, reviewing our actions, and simplifying our lives, weeding out nonessentials.  Listening with our minds and our heart!  Soul searching takes several important steps:  Dreaming, Thinking, Talking, Committing, and Action.  Take time at the end of EACH day to review your progress toward your goals and be thankful for the good that happened during your waking hours.

    Every day can be filled with meaning if you set your mind to it.  Start each day by saying “Good morning, Self!  I greet you with  joy in my heart because I know Jesus will walk with me today and as I reach out to touch those people I encounter, I will do so knowing that HE put this person in front of me for a reason and I will show appreciation and love.  With this thought in mind, then you’ll know why you are here!

Micah 6: 8 And what does the Lord require of you?  To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.