Archives for January 2019

Greetings everyone!I’m thinking about compassion in our work these days. Nursing theorist Jean Watson describes compassion as the “capacity to bear witness to, suffer with, and hold dear within our heart the sorrow and beauties of the world” Practicing compassion requires us to allow for deep introspection in order to be open to feeling the deep connection with others. 

Pema Chödrön reminds us that in order to practice compassion we must have compassion for ourselves.

In the words of Pema Chödrön:

Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone and don’t forget to show yourself a little compassion.

Namaste. 

Margaret Costello RN, PhD
Assistant Professor 
Simmons University
Boston, Ma 02115
margaret.costello@simmons.edu
617 521-2434

Hello everyone!
In my work with Jean Watson, I have learned the importance of self care. Our lives are busy, yet it is so important that we take care of our own needs.  I recall the inspirational quote (I cannot find the original author)

You cannot pour from an empty vessel”

Author Unknown

In the words of Jean Watson:

We have to treat ourselves with gentleness, loving kindness, equanimity and dignity before we can respect and care for others with gentleness, kindness, equanimity and dignity.” Jean Watson
Be good to yourselves and have a fabulous weekend…

Warm regards, 
Margaret Costello RN, PhD
Assistant Professor 
Simmons University
Boston, Ma 02115
margaret.costello@simmons.edu
617 521-2434

When someone is going through a storm, your silent presence is more powerful than a million empty words.

– Thema Davis

This quote reminded me of Paula Koppel’s narrative where she shared hearing her own heartbeat and that no words were exchanged as she walked the patient down the stairs. Our silent presence can be so powerful.