Practicing What I Teach

As a nurse and a teacher, I urge clients and students to strive for a balance with all matters in life.

Self - care is paramount to all else. So is breathing...!

Slowly but surely I am achieving my milestones on HubPages, recently celebrating my two - year anniversary. I remain ever humbled whenever I receive a positive and supportive comment from one of my, now, 501 followers.

Although I do not write nearly as much as I would like, I love sharing comments and reading as many Hubs as I can possibly keep up with. I learn much wonderful, valuable information. In addition, I have bonded with many in our community. What a powerful friendship we have formed, virtually speaking!

I experienced life altering trauma in June, 1999. Some recent Hubs by friends of mine have reminded me that this event could still very much weigh me down as baggage, if I allowed it.

And, thanks to my very first mentor, I also learned that some people in life teach me what to do and some, what not to do. I agree with my friend who writes that mentors pick you. I don't think my Mom had any choice in the matter!

After thirty years working in the hospital, the community and in administration, I have come to love my role as a Nursing Professor. I think nurses are remarkable women and men. I teach a variety of subjects such as Holistic Nursing, Leadership and Management, and Issues with Aging and Chronic Illness. I feel selfish because I learn so much from my students! It's just like my wise mentor told me when I was a little girl!

I have shared some of my poems about Mom in our discussions on death, dying and grief. This helps the students and is an amazing catharsis for me as well. PS, yes, I cry at times with the students. It is much better than breaking down in front of the patients!

I am known far and wide with my students for my creative reflection exercises and imagery experiences. Writing has really helped me practice what I teach! I ask my students to journal for their personal self awareness and growth.

So, now I intend to do a little more of the same...

Until we meet again, I wish you peace, happiness and creative expression. Hugs, mar

© Maria Jordan (revised March, 2015)