My Job.

I'm really excited about this post, so bear with me. A lot of the time I can't get out what I'm trying to say, but I'm going to do my best. . .

When I tell people I work at a Nursing Home, as a CNA, usually their first response is something like, "Really? Is it hard? Do you like it? So, you do all of the dirty work?" Or, "It takes a special person to do that." Because I AM taking old people to the toilet, and I AM dealing with combative residents, and I AM showering an 90 year-old man. So yes, I agree that not everyone can DO those things, because of their comfort zones, or whatever you want to call it. And up until recently, that was a big part of what I thought of my job as well... I have to wake up So Early! Then right when I get to work, it's getting people dressed, getting them showered, changing their Brief. . . Sounds like fun doesn't it?

I was asked to attend an Eden Training in Salt Lake City to become a Certifited Eden Associate. Most people have never even heard of the Eden Philosphy. Let me try and sum it up a little for you. When I tell people I work as a CNA at a Care Community, their response would be more like this, "Wow, so you get to help take care of those amazing people who have amazing stories, and become their friend? That, is awesome."  And instead, I would be waking up every morning at 5am thinking, "Today is going to be great! I get to develop a relationship with so many amazing people, and I will be making a difference in their lives, as they will be in mine." I know, that is so cheesey, but I am all about cheesey. It's truly how the Eden way is though. More nursing homes are becoming care communities instead, and that's what's so powerful, because they are adopting this and wanting to be better, and do better for the elders.

I guess I want more people to understand that my job truly is a difference maker. And I truly do love the elders I see everyday. I'm not perfect, and I become task-oriented when there is a lot to do, and I don't focus on the relationships as much when I get that way, but I love My Job.

For a while I've been counting on leaving Cedar City, leaving Kolob after the spring, in hopes that Spencer will have gotten into school. But, I will be really sad when that day comes. I know I will miss the elders, and the people I work with. This job, these people, have really helped my self-image. I now KNOW that I can do great things. Which is why I'm going back to school. It will be a sad day when I leave Kolob.