marcoujor: The Rain and Everything

This past week I met with my dear friend, Alice, and her group of nursing students - five of them- from my alma mater, where she teaches a clinical rotation in behavioral health nursing.

I spoke to them about issues of personal safety and workplace violence - professional boundaries - self care needs throughout their careers and answered some questions they had as well, some about my personal journey in particular.

I was proud to read them a small passage from “The Rain and Everything”, a compilation of my writings that was hot off the press.  I had blindsided Alice by giving her the very first ‘autographed’ copy, as she is written about twice in the book - what a profound influence my friend, guide and role model has had on me…

This is what I read to the group from “The Worry Circle” story in my book:

The ‘A’ I earned for Mrs. B’s course was bittersweet.  

“Years from now the grade I give you will not matter.  Open your mind and heart.  Learn every day, especially from your patients and staff.” 

Alice had tears in her eyes and it was a moment I’ll always treasure.  The next morning I received a touching e-mail that included the following message:

“I read the beautiful things you said about me... How wonderful for me that you remembered and that it took on special meaning in your life... And it wasn't some nursing theory, etc.

When I sometimes am down, I shall read it as well as your entire book.  I feel privileged for you to include me in your published book.  You have inspired me to write more.

I could go on and on... You are very gifted!  And my students and I appreciated you taking time for us.

Love, hugs and a big kiss.....you are so special to me, Ali”

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I’m making a list of the other special people in my life who are laced throughout this compilation of my writings. I’ll greatly enjoy presenting them with their autographed copy - in person, if at all possible.  My editor, Shauna L. Bowling, and publisher, Michael Friedman, are my Earth angels and they have polished my book into a gem I am ever so proud of.

Like rain, Mom is all over the place.  Even her picture can be found four times with me throughout the book.  Some special folks, both two footed and four footed will not be able to get direct appreciation for the the role they played in my book - at least not on this side of the Earth.

Time for a song from my college days when Alice taught me from The Eurythmics: “Here Comes the Rain Again”

Today also happens to be Earth Day and Administrative Professionals Day. 

I don’t know if this happens every year or if I’m just noticing. It makes sense to me - as the two days seem to go hand in hand, at least in my humble opinion… :)

I haven’t had an ‘administrative assistant’ since 1999, yet I’ve never forgotten them - in fact, I’m friends with several to this day.  They were the ‘salt of my earth’ on the job and could anticipate my next move like a clairvoyant - truly making it a joy to go to work every day.

Any garden or yard that I have grown up or lived in has always felt free and fully developed with a variety of flowers, plants and trees.  My parents and husband have thrived on the planting of landscapes that promote peace and moments of happiness.

A riot of natural color bursts forth in the early Spring days around the Jordan ranch as captured in these photographs:

Hoping you have a chance to check out these other amazing posts from the Weeblyhood:

• Do as Woodpeckers Do if You Really Want to Achieve Your Goals via Bravewarrior's Feathered Pen
• Spin Mops - A Growing Trend via WarnerWords
  
• Indie Biz: New Harmony's Old Rooming House via flashPress

Until next week, sending you wishes for peace and hugs too, mar