As I step out of the hospital, badge in hand, I glance at the clock—it’s nearly 8 p.m. By the time I pull into the driveway, my two children are already showered and snug in their pajamas, eagerly awaiting my arrival.
“How was your day?” my partner, John, asks, accepting my tired expression as an answer.
Tucking the kids into bed, I experience a poignant moment of reflection. I look down at my hands as I pull up the vibrant, Elsa-themed covers over their little legs. Just an hour earlier, those same hands had been working tirelessly to revive a patient fighting for their last breath.
As I begin to read a gentle bedtime story, flashes of the day’s trials parade through my mind—images of families grappling with their worst moments, the soft sounds of their tears echoing in my thoughts. I do my utmost to focus on the story, reading aloud, “Goodnight stars, goodnight air,” trying to embrace the fleeting normalcy of this moment.
“Goodnight, I love you,” I whisper, planting a kiss on their foreheads. In these simple acts, I am reminded of life’s fragility, and I savor the beauty of our nightly routine.
Over the years, my family has adapted to my unique rhythm. There are times when I hold them closer, moments when my gaze drifts off, and instances where I find joy in the small things that often go unnoticed. I engage in conversations that stretch longer than necessary, and I sometimes question everything around me.
They witness as I prepare for work, draping the stethoscope around my neck and fastening my RN badge. I wouldn’t trade this life for anything. In my profession, I am both a learner and a participant in life’s lessons. The experiences I have shape my understanding of resilience and strength.
Life teaches us that we are a tenacious bunch. Some of us exhibit our strength quietly, while others are louder about it. We are a mixture of tears and laughter, bravery and vulnerability. We gather, we pray, we share our stories, and we express ourselves even when it feels unexpected.
Even though my badge may signal the end of my shift, its weight follows me home. I am profoundly grateful for the myriad moments that have crafted my journey—our shared human experience showcases a unique and beautiful strength. I willingly embrace the flashbacks that remind me of life’s preciousness. The two children who call me their mother teach me about resilience every day, and they don’t need to know the specifics of my work; what they will always feel is the depth of my love for them.
Being a nurse has shaped my approach to motherhood in countless ways, and I am thankful for it.
For those exploring the idea of family and parenting, check out our post on home insemination kits. If you’re curious about fertility issues, you might find valuable insights on endometriosis as well. For general pregnancy information, Healthline provides excellent resources.
Summary
Finding strength as a nurse and a mother involves balancing the emotional toll of the healthcare profession with the joys and challenges of parenthood. The experiences gained from both roles intertwine, enriching the understanding of resilience and love, while highlighting the importance of cherishing every moment with family.