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marcoujor: To Al With Love

1/14/2017

22 Comments

 
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​I worked in various nursing positions at my area's largest state hospital serving the chronically, mentally disabled for over 15 years, from 1983 to 1999. I met some remarkable men and women who have inspired me--teaching me some amazing life lessons along the way.

My eight years of progressive management positions were some of the most challenging and enriching years of my career. One man in particular took the chance and the time to believe in me. His name is Al, and he served as Superintendent.

I met Al in 1990 when I was a Clinical Nurse Specialist. While I should have been intimidated by his position, he made me feel right at home by greeting me with a big bear hug!

It wasn't long before Al called me into his office. Even at the age of 29, I still got really anxious, but Al had a way of putting me right at ease.

By the time I left his office, I agreed to take my first management job! This was way outside of my clinical comfort zone, yet Al assured me 'I'd be fine'. Oh yeah, I would also be assigned to the Assaultive Management Program, with a census of 120 psychotic patients, with serious assault histories. Thanks to some amazing staff, I quickly fell in love with this unnerving assignment!

I returned to Al's office many times. With each challenge/change of assignment, I gained even more experience managing other units, including the Nursing Education and Staff Orientation Department.

In retrospect, I think Al had a master plan after all, as he encouraged me to apply for the position of Director of Nursing, also known as the Assistant Superintendent for Nursing Services in 1995.

This position was an opportunity and a panic all rolled up into one! It helped to know that Al had confidence in me. Indeed, I became the youngest A.S.N.S. in the history of Pennsylvania at the age of 35 in 1995 for 600 patients and 600 nursing staff. I'm not sure of anyone else who would have given me the opportunity that Al did.

While Al retired in 1996, we continued to keep in touch. He cried with me in 1999 and understood why I had to finally leave this position. We have attended funerals together. We have lunched. He still considers me 'his nurse' when he has a question.

'To Sir With Love' is the perfect song to celebrate one of the most inspirational men in my life.



For Al

Over the years,
You took my fears,
Grew past the tears,
Strength did appear.
​
Father figure,
Helped me to soar,
Taught me for sure,
Then to endure.

Allowed me to nurse,
Loved to converse,
Never to coerce,
Commit and immerse.

With me a chance,
For an entrance,
Sweet circumstance,
Took a proud stance.​

Al will have my forever gratitude for showing me how much in charge I am the very thing that matters the most--my own, ethical behavior.

Boss, teacher, mentor and friend--wishing Al a Happy Birthday today, January 15th and sending wishes for a fulfilling and healthy 2017.

Until next time, tell someone how much they have inspired you.

Be well,

mar
22 Comments
Vicki link
1/15/2017 08:33:33 am

Dear Mareer,
It is such a lovely thing to be able to thank the very special people who have inspired you in life, and even better when you're able to write your eloquent appreciation. Lulu's song is perfect for this!
Beautiful tribute from a beautiful friend.
Love and hugs
Vickster

Reply
Maria link
1/16/2017 07:30:44 am

Hi Vickster,
Mom taught me to 'give flowers when those you love are alive' - so this tribute is a way of doing this.
Thanks for being the first to stop by. Have a peaceful Monday.
Love, mareer

Reply
Martie link
1/15/2017 08:49:59 am

Dearest Maria, every time I read your story I cry my heart out. But then I once again realize that there is a reason for everything, and getting where we are today demand a couple of painful experiences.

Happy birthday, Al, and thank you so much for encouraging Maria to walk the path that was meant for her.

Love you lots, my beautiful friend, Maria! I am so proud to be your friend!

Reply
Maria link
1/16/2017 07:39:47 am

Dear Martie,
Your remarks are both sweet and wise. Thanks for your kind words to Al as well.
Love you too, dear friend.

Reply
Peg Cole link
1/15/2017 09:02:47 am

Al sounds like a great mentor and inspiration. It's wonderful that you had such a important influence in your early nursing career. Glad to see you are still in touch. Happy birthday to your friend.

Reply
Maria link
1/16/2017 07:41:19 am

Indeed, Peg... you are right about this special man.

Love you and Happy Monday, Maria

Reply
paula link
1/15/2017 10:39:25 am

Paying tribute & gratitude to the "Al" & other heroes who come into our lives is an important step in reminding us of whom we have become & how we arrived.
It is the recognition of these inspirational individuals that keeps us always humble and sparks our willingness to Pay It Forward, insuring the circle of love, wisdom & generosity goes on. Beautiful......Thank you, Maria.
Peace & Hugs, Paula

Reply
Maria link
1/16/2017 07:43:22 am

Well said, dear Paula - I totally agree.

Love and hugs to you this day and always, Maria

Reply
Mike
1/15/2017 12:48:06 pm

Hello mar - It is so nice for you to point the spotlight on Al, 'Who took a chance on you.' Sometime the right person comes along and changes everything, Al sounds like one of those men.

Another shining tribute.

Reply
Maria link
1/16/2017 07:48:09 am

Yes, Mike...what a wonderful description of Al.

I appreciate you visit and wish you a peaceful day.

Reply
Ruby link
1/15/2017 04:06:01 pm

Mar, your tribute to Al is a wonderful way to acknowledge a special person who encouraged you on your path in nursing. Happy birthday Al. Thank you Mar. Lot's of love my sweet friend.

Reply
Maria link
1/16/2017 07:49:05 am

Thanks, dear Ruby - you and your comments are most appreciated.

Love to you too, mar

Reply
William Holland link
1/16/2017 09:44:47 am

Well, I can tell you that this story and poetry inspired me, as do you, your love of others, your dedication, and your empathy. Thank you for being in my life, dear Maria.

love,
bill

Reply
Maria link
1/17/2017 07:42:25 pm

What a sweet comment, dear Bill. Thanks ever so much and lovely to see you.

Love,
Maria

Reply
Sannel link
1/17/2017 01:39:04 pm

Dearest Maria,

Thank you for sharing with us this beautiful, blossomed tribute to Al, one of the most inspirational men in your life.
What a blessing to have such a remarkable man in your life. Not only as a friend but also a mentor and someone who has had the confidence in you and encouraged you on your path in nursing.

Wow, it's so impressing hearing that you have been the youngest A.S.N.S. in the history of Pennsylvania at the age of 35 in 1995 for 600 patients and 600 nursing staff. You're an amazing inspiration to all of us, beautiful friend.

Happy birthday, Sir Al! Sending across your way a bouquet of happiness wishes for a healthy and peaceful 2017.

Maria, love you lots!
Hugs,
Sannel

Reply
Maria link
1/17/2017 07:44:18 pm

Sir Al..... I love that title, dear Sannel and can feel Al blushing with all this well-deserved attention.

Love you and this beautiful comment. Hugs to Freddie too, Maria

Reply
Angelia link
1/17/2017 02:11:58 pm

Prof. Mahreer,

I dunno if Al is a nurse too, but I'm appreciative of the wonderful influences he delivered to them during his own career.

This is a beautiful tribute to an obviously worthy mentor.

Belated birthday wishes to your friend, Al and it's a pleasure to get acquainted with him thru your post.

Reply
Maria link
1/17/2017 07:46:49 pm

Dear Ange,
Actually Al is a Social Worker...and I know he would appreciate your kind feedback - I know I do.
Love and thanks for all you do, mar

Reply
Nee
1/17/2017 07:05:24 pm

Maria, what a beautiful tribute.

Reply
Maria link
1/17/2017 07:45:16 pm

Thanks, dear Nee... :)

Reply
Shauna
1/27/2017 11:26:19 am

Mar, you always make the people in your life feel special, as Al has done for you. I talk about you quite frequently. Your snail mail cards and gifts always seem to come just at the right time and are always a wonderful surprise that warms the heart.

You're the best!

Reply
Maria link
1/30/2017 07:07:05 am

Same to you, dear Sha - what a beautiful comment giving me an infusion of smiles this Monday morning.

Have a peaceful week. Love you and hugs too, mar

Reply



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    marcoujor

    Something awaits us all.

    Know your possibilities.

    There is inspiration all around us--in those people and situations we encounter along life's way.

    Share your wonder with me as well.

    I treasure your comments.

    mar


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