First Impressions



“Don’t be over self-confident with your first impressions of people…” ~ Chinese Proverb

I could sense her fears and anxiety. Kept in secrecy at the deepest chamber in her heart. Doubts popping randomly all through out the night, as she tried to learn a new trade in this chosen profession of Nursing. 

Leaving a different area she thought she loved at first from the hospital, she came to try Correctional Nursing. But just like anywhere else in any workplace, blending in wouldn’t be easy. 

It wasn’t because the job was any harder. Nor the tasks would be impossible to be learned. The problem was…the people. People who had been working there for a long time who forgot they were once a newcomer like new nurses. People who got along so well and unfortunately, subtly, mini-groups had been formed where the same interests and habits merged. Groups that felt threatened when another person or co-worker would come along with a different idea, a different lifestyle, a different belief or might have a different points of view with life, meant it was time to put up barriers and an unseen “You’re not welcome” mat from their words and actions.
 
“I never had a problem with her,” I firmly stated to a Charge Nurse the other night.

She didn’t say anything. I sensed many, perhaps, had more negative things than to see the positive from this new nurse. But I needed to say something after working with this new nurse for a few nights. I never took sides. All I wanted was for them to bring down those barriers and give her a “chance”. 

Acceptance…

Respect…

Understanding…

I knew after being here in the prison for many years, there would always be those great and “not so great” nurses. But the number one problem was never about performing tasks or learning prison things. The number one problem was that people always judged and always go by what they heard and going with others’ FIRST IMPRESSIONS.

I could be a part of that group… But after going through my own trials of getting hurt from the hospital and transferring to work as a Correctional Nurse, as a believer of God, I started seeing His works behind mysterious ways. That I never needed to rely on anyone else but only Him. Despite such unpleasant grapevines and knowing what a “little tongue” could do to burn others, I knew I didn’t need to be a part of such hurtful acts.

I always want to remind myself wherever I am that it is only by His grace and love that I am able to change my heart and wisely choose Who to follow. Who to listen to. Who to seek for life’s advices. I always want to remind myself that His first impression of my old nature never blames, never shames, never rejects and never hates. And even as a new creature, His faithful loves continues to mold and shape me to what He wants me to be... All the cutting, all the pruning, He always does with love and grace...

“Don’t worry about what you hear nor from what you see,” I gave my only advice to that new nurse.

I didn’t need to hear her “Thank you.” She doesn’t owe me anything. I know she just needed that chance of showing what she has and can deliver. To turn their “bad first impression on her” to good. Without conforming to their ways but by simply being herself. A good nurse who’s willing to learn the trade and be able to use her skills to help out others just like how those nurses and myself do it.

I know she needs to find her place… Because I believe God is strategically placing each of His children in every dark place in this world. To reflect His light… To make a difference…


Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.” – John 7:24 (ESV)

7 comments:

  1. It is always interesting to me how God shows us He's in control and orchestrating the day's events to teach us life lessons no matter what the occupation we're in! Thinking of you at Thanksgiving, my friend, and wishing you and yours a Happy one.

    Love & hugs,
    Mary

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  2. It is a blessing you were there as that bright light for her.just as your blog is a bright light in blog land and to me. Thank you for being my blogger friend. May your Thanksgiving Day be full of blessings. ((hugs))Dee

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  3. This is so true in almost every aspect of our lives, from school to church and the work place. I think you defined this perfectly and showcased that you are much different from the majority and that the light of Jesus shines through it all. God bless you for what you do!

    Love and Hugs ~ Kat

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  4. :) I know she appreciated your advice to her. I tried to comment a couple of times before on your blog, but could not. I thought you might want to know that sweet Denise had open heart surgery. She is probably still in the hospital. I thought I had your email address at one time, but did not see one. Thanks for visiting my blog today. Happy Thanksgiving! Hugs

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  5. It is those sticky situation that bring out the best or worst in us. Thanks God you let the best come out, the attitude of Jesus toward this new nurse. Happy Thanksgiving Rosel....thanks for stopping by my site Always glad when I visit yours, you carry wisdom in your words.

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  6. This post is so kind, so full of wisdom. God has placed you there to be a helping hand to the new nurse, and also let the voice of the Father be heard through you. You are courageous, and God is honored through your life, even through your blog. Thank you for dropping by my blog place... to greet me a Happy Thanksgiving. I do thank God for the few blog friends who have continued to remain connected to my heart... This thanksgiving, these are some of the things I am thankful for!

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  7. Your light shines so brightly my friend.This is how we Christians should act, as you did. I don't know if this new nurse knows Jesus but she certainly is getting to see Jesus in you. I love how our Lord has placed you in the prison to work as a nurse. Even in the darkest places, His light shines in you.

    Love you sister in Christ,
    Debbie

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"Faith is taking the first step even if you don't see the whole staircase..."
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