On this last day of 2022, I reflect on the year that was. In the grand scheme of tragedies, wars, poverty, and the continued menace of Covid-19, I can truly say that I am blessed beyond belief.
At our year-end Thanksgiving service in the church, I remembered the moments of blessings and happiness, and I gave thanks for the spiritual guidance from the Almighty God. My gratitude abounds.
I have my own share of ups and downs, disappointments, and trials, but I am hopeful that 2023 will be a better year for all of us. I wish to share and pay forward all the great things I received.
I AM THANKFUL FOR:
Vacation in the Philippines, September 2022
The best thing that happened in 2022 was that I hugged my
mother again. Finally, after three years of video calls, I held my 91-year-old
Nanay in my arms. She is the reason why we endured the long arduous plane ride
to the Philippines; why we suffered through turbulent rides and backside-numbing
pains.
In the picture, my mom was actually trying not to laugh
because she didn't have her dentures in. She was conscious of her appearance, making sure to wear her perfume every day even though she did not often leave her bedroom anymore due to her weak knees. As long as her favorite tv shows are on, she is content.
Whatever her heart desires, I will always try to give in to her, except on staying at her side for good. Unfortunately, I have to live apart from her and work far away to provide for her. Thankfully, her mind is still sharp as ever. She playfully hinted at a new watch from her grandson Jordan.
All good things had to come to an end. I had a great time reuniting with my extended family, friends, and classmates. My heartfelt thanks to family and friends who made our vacation a fantabulous one.
It was not easy to kiss my mom and the rest of my family goodbye, to wait until the next vacation. But wipe the tears we did, for we had to get back to work.
Beautiful Philippines
Being a tourist in my native country. There are so many hidden gems in this country of 7,100+ islands.
Birthday celebration with family
Far away from the somber 9/11 ceremonies in the US, my birthday this year amongst family and friends was most significant for me. This was the first time I celebrated my special day in Manila after 39 years and the first time since 2001 (21 years) when I didn't feel a smidgen of guilt for celebrating a day more remembered for the attack on the twin towers. In the haze of purple attire and a standee of BTS Jin, there was just peace, happiness, and contentment to be with the people I love.
Life is simple, after all. There is joy when you're surrounded by love, there is no need for an ostentatious celebration. Just celebrating life, although I still cringed when I saw the number 64. I just have to remember that age is just a number and that I am much wiser and more blessed.
My article “Finding My Joy: Fighting Nurse Burn-out” was published in the Journal of Emergency Nursing November 2022 issue. It was a personal account of my own challenges and journey as a nurse leader during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. I believe that this will resonate with other nurse leaders out there.
Finding My Joy: Fighting Nurse Burn-out
Los Cabos, Mexico, for the 1199SIEU Continuing Education
Wellness Conference
So thankful to be part of the Instructor team from the #1199SEIU Continuing Education group. The Wellness of the Mind, Body, and Soul conference at Los Cabos, Mexico, offered the topics on Self-care: Building a path to healthy kidneys, DM: Prevention & Health Maintenance, The Search for the true self, and my topic Finding Joy in Nursing. This conference proved that nurses (or any healthcare worker) deserve to take care of and love themselves first to fight burnout. One cannot run on empty.
After the challenges of Covid-19 as front liners, nurses need to recharge and invigorate themselves to find their joy. We all need help to find our purpose and meaning, our "Ikigai."
