Archives for April 2020

Shortly after we started this lovely practice, I shared the wonderful work of Brother David Steindl-Rast and the website: https://gratefulness.org.  Many responded that this site was supportive.  Yesterday, Brother David released a new 6-minute video called “Blessings.”  When you can find a few quiet moments, I offer you this recording for its comfort and serenity.  Here is the link for the recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=RDCMUCWKa5jvlOrH_KgX2UMbAEFw&v=dDoNHGnJLwU&feature=emb_rel_end
Warmly, Paula

One of my mentors sent this to me a few weeks ago and it was quite comforting.  I hope this story provides you some comfort as well during this difficult time. It certainly makes me feel grateful to be part of this tremendous profession and maybe even part of humanity.
Warmly, Paula 

Several years ago I read this excerpt from Ira Byock’s book , “The Best Care Possible: A Physician’s Quest to Transform Care Through the End of Life”.  I tucked it away to re-read during times such as this….. hope it resonates with you. 

“…Years ago, anthropologist Margaret Mead was asked by a student what she considered to be the first sign of civilization in a culture. The student expected Mead to talk about fishhooks or clay pots or grinding stones. 

“But no. Mead said that the first sign of civilization in an ancient culture was a femur (thighbone) that had been broken and then healed. Mead explained that in the animal kingdom, if you break your leg, you die. You cannot run from danger, get to the river for a drink or hunt for food. You are meat for prowling beasts. No animal survives a broken leg long enough for the bone to heal. 

“A broken femur that has healed is evidence that someone has taken time to stay with the one who fell, has bound up the wound, has carried the person to safety and has tended the person through recovery. Helping someone else through difficulty is where civilization starts, Mead said.”

Amidst the uncertainty of these times, there is beauty all around us if we take the time to notice. While caring for others, please remember to care for yourself so you can feel love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy and creativity—Be well and stay well…