As I stood on the bustling city street, the sun warmed my face while my stethoscope weighed heavily around my neck. After a long shift of 10 out of 12 hours on my feet, I watched the taxis dart by and commuters hurriedly navigate the sidewalk in their sharp suits and polished shoes. The spring air filled my lungs as I turned my attention to my patient, who, like me, was basking in the sunlight.
He was facing heart failure, counting his remaining days instead of years, having long ago surrendered the hope of a future.
When my assignment for the day included him, I couldn’t help but groan inwardly. He was a “frequent flier” in our hospital, infamous for his bitter demeanor and sharp tongue that intimidated even the most seasoned nurses. His call light was a constant presence, always lit, as he complained about everything from his pillow’s comfort to the temperature of his meals. His reputation for being “highly difficult” preceded him, and I dreaded spending a full shift catering to his demands.
Upon entering his darkened room, my apprehensions were confirmed as he launched into a torrent of complaints. Yet, as I arranged his cluttered bedside and drew back the curtains to let in the light, I noticed the fear in his eyes. Beneath the anger and bitterness, he was desperately afraid of being alone. Suddenly, it became clear that his complaints were a way to keep people near him.
After attending to my other patients, I returned to his room and asked a simple question: “What do you wish to do most before you pass away, Mr. Johnson?” His surprised expression quickly faded as he replied, “I want to feel the sun on my face one more time.”
Thus began our journey onto the busy street, with him in a wheelchair, still tethered to his IV and oxygen. Watching him soak in the sun and fresh air, I realized that true healing comes from looking past anger and hurt. By setting my own feelings aside and genuinely listening, I was able to provide him with a moment of joy before he passed away the following day. That experience has remained etched in my memory.
Recently, I came across a touching video that left me in tears. Created by Cleansheet Communications for a Canadian tire company, it powerfully conveyed a message of inclusiveness and dignity for vulnerable children. The ad emphasizes that when the best among us step up, our nation becomes a better place.
Reflecting on my patient and our shared moment, I understand how vital it is to stand up for our most vulnerable citizens: children living in poverty, victims of elder abuse, and those seeking refuge from persecution. True greatness lies in how we treat those in need. Right now, our nation’s chain is broken, but it can be mended. Each of us holds the power to reinforce our shared humanity, but it requires a daily commitment to confront injustices.
Standing up means embracing diversity without judgment—like accepting a little boy in a dress on the playground. It involves eliminating harmful language that offends the differently-abled community. We must not tolerate leaders who belittle those with disabilities or discriminate against transgender individuals. It also means recognizing the contributions of immigrants who seek a better life and advocating for inclusive laws instead of exclusionary practices.
Everyone deserves their moment in the sun, and sometimes, those moments need to be orchestrated by those who can bring light into the darkness. It requires us to be uncomfortable and vulnerable in our quest for change. Listening to those we disagree with can lead to breakthroughs that foster understanding and progress.
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In summary, we must take action to create a society that prioritizes compassion and support for those who are most vulnerable. Each small step towards understanding and inclusion can lead to significant change. Let’s commit to building a brighter future together.