When I began my nursing school journey over one year ago, I couldn't see the end in sight. The accelerated nursing program at Bellarmine University was no joke. I thought about quitting more times than not. With eight week semesters, exams almost every week, class and clinical five days a week, I didn't have much of a life for those 12 months. Three hundred and sixty-five days seemed like an eternity.
But, the hard work paid off.
Five years ago, at the age of 21, I had just finished up my undergrad degree at WKU and had zero idea what to do with my life. I'm almost 27 years old now and just beginning my career. Just now starting to save for retirement. Still living at home with my parents.
At times, I used to feel as though I was "behind" in life.
I was supposed to be married by 23, have my first child by 25. Sometimes I would think, "Where did I go wrong?". I see friends post pictures of their babies on Facebook, celebrate anniversaries with their spouse. While I was always happy for them, I couldn't help but compare my life to theirs. Social media is a truly wonderful gift, but sometimes we let it get the best of us. We use it as a tool of comparison, instead of a way to share in life's joyous moments.
Who sets the standard of where one should be at 27 years old, anyway? Who says, I should've already been married with two kids by now?
My loving 89 year old grandma. That's who.
Every time I go to visit her, I get asked the same series of questions. It begins with, "Are you married? Do you have a boyfriend?" "Why not?" "How old are you?!" "You're a pretty girl. You shouldn't have trouble finding someone."
I kindly smile and reply, "No, I'm not married, nor do I have a boyfriend." "I am 26 years old." "I've wanted to focus on school and beginning my career."
My answers aren't satisfactory, but she accepts them and says she'll pray for a Godly man to enter my life.
[I'm not even kidding.]
To some I may be behind in life, but I have learned to be completely happy with where I am and to stop comparing.
I have had experiences most people never will. I may not have a husband or children or five years in my career, but I've fallen off an elephant in Thailand. I've lived with an Italian family and eaten true Italian pizza. I've almost gotten robbed in Naples. I've seen the Eiffel Tower. I've lived in California. I've gone skydiving. I've traveled solo. I've learned the majority of people in this world are kind.
And now at almost 27, I have begun a career that I love. I am a pediatric RN at Kosair [soon to have a different name] Children's Hospital. I am so happy to have found a career that incorporates my passion in life.
My life took a completely different path. One that I never expected; however, I am so grateful for. All of my life experiences have made me who I am today.
"Two things prevent us from happiness: Living in the past and observing others."
[Author Unknown]
This is great!
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