The Reality of Change.

                Countless coffee runs, late night study sessions, and early morning wake up calls are just a few of the things that I’ve become accustomed to since starting this new chapter in life. I can honestly say that I have read my textbooks more in the last 6 weeks than I have in the last year and a half of college. I have learned the true value of sleep and the consequences of minimal sleep followed by a 10-hour clinical day. I couldn’t tell you what’s happening on the trending tv shows or even the last time I went out to see a movie with friends. However, I can tell you how to properly wash your hands, make a bed (which apparently I’ve been doing wrong for the last 19 years?!) and even how to insert an NG tube. I have also learned that nursing school is all about critical thinking and problem solving. Oh and there’s always multiple right answers but the real trick is to pick the “BEST” answer. Life is changing more and more every day and it has been quite the adjustment.

 I knew that starting nursing school would mean a change but the reality of that change hit me like a freight train. I’ve struggled greatly with the realization that maintaining friendships and relationships with the people around me is becoming harder and harder with each passing day. The time to spend with friends outside of the nursing program is minimal and when it does happen, it almost feels as if my schedule conflicts with the world…or just the majority of my friends. Rather than spending weekends doing fun things with friends or visiting family, I now spend time reading textbooks and taking notes on the assigned readings for the following week. I know it is not exactly the most eventful fun-filled thing ever but hey, that is just a part of life now. I am seeing the value of friends who are willing to work around such a crazy schedule to hangout and also the unfortunate reality of those who don’t feel the same way. There is also this constant battle between having fun and getting good grades and a combination of the two is a fine line. I am still learning how to find that perfect balance but when I figure it all out, I’ll be sure to let you know! 

It has certainly been a little bit of a struggle but only by the grace of God am I able to continue in this journey known as nursing school. Although I find myself stressed by the workload and never-ending studying, I am confident in Christ and his plan for me. Each day I am reminded what a blessing it is to be a part of this nursing program and that God has an even greater plan for me than I could ever imagine. Whenever I feel as though I’m in this alone I need to remember that Christ is right beside me and in my struggles, His name is made great. I hope and pray that His light will continue to shine through me, to give hope and inspiration to those around me.

“The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.”
Psalm 29:11

“We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” Psalm 33:20-22