As I travel and speak to nursing students across the nation on the topic "Nurses Can Make a Difference" , I am constantly inspired by their enthusiasm and excitement about the nursing profession. During my presentation, I discuss the many facets of nursing, for there are many. While nursing is often fun-filled and joyful, it can also be incredibly difficult at times. It can be excruciatingly sad. Last but not least, nursing is spiritual because life itself is spiritual.
When I mention the fact that nursing is “spiritual”, I sometimes sense uneasiness among a few members of the audience. No one jumps up and leaves. No one verbally disagrees with me or comments. The signs are subtle. People will shift in their chairs, fidget with a pen or simply just look away.
Apparently, the topic can be uncomfortable for some people, but since (in my opinion) spirituality is an important part of nursing, I have found it necessary to explain myself. To me, spirituality has nothing to do with religion or what church a person may belong to. It has nothing to do with anyone’s personal belief or how they practice that belief. It stems from the premise that all life is spiritual.
There have been times in my nursing career when the unexplained has occurred. I have been witness to profound experiences that cannot be measured, scientifically proven or understood. These experiences have changed my life. I have become a better, more sensitive nurse and human being because of them.
