Reflections on Unemployment
Being unemployed seemed like a blessing in disguise at first. I mean, who wouldn't want to receive an unemployment check to stay home and catch up on the little odds and ends that accumulate when you are on a strict, busy schedule of day and night shifts?
Sure, there are people who like to be busy all the time--I'm one of them. But I defy anyone to deny that it's nice to be paid to take it easy for a little while.
Truth is, after a few weeks, you start to miss it. Marathons of "Unsolved Mysteries," morning pancakes, "Halo" and movies cannot compare to the rush of being in the ICU, even on a slow day.
I miss it all, from talking to the staff over morning coffee (and my AMP energy drink), seeing familiar faces and doling out countless aerosol treatments. I even miss bugging doctors all day to change their orders.
So please do me a favor. While you're at work this week, take a moment and soak it all in. Stop, take a deep breath. Live it! Every tiny bit, the dynamic and mundane things, and appreciate it. Then project that positive feeling to your patients.
These are heavy times, but don't let it weigh you down!
B.J. Smith