When I applied for a job at the nursing home right next to my high school the summer after my Junior year, I was doing so because I really needed a job. Now, after working there for a year and a half, I realize that working so closely with the residents has taught me so much about myself and helping others. The men and women that I work so closely with have taught me lessons that I constantly find myself applying to my daily life. This job, and all of my coworkers and residents, has changed my life in more ways than I can count, but some of the more important ways include:
1. I have learned the true value of a life.
By working with people who are often in a very difficult time of their life, I have been able to learn what a life really is and how much value it holds. I have heard entire life stories and seen a resident’s health go up and down in constant cycles of good health and bad. My job has made me appreciate the gift of life we are all given in a much greater capacity.
2. I have become more confident in my ability to make decisions.
Sometimes, at work, you have to make decisions without having a lot of time to think about it. In the beginning I was nervous in making decisions and thinking for myself. Now, I am so much more confident doing such things, and this confidence has translated into my everyday life as well.
3. It has helped me find my passion in helping others.
Working in a nursing home has allowed me to realize that I am truly passionate about working to help others. I have always known that I belonged in a field that was really beneficial to other people, and my job allowed me to see that the place I belong is in the medical field.
4. I have received priceless life advice.
The residents I work with are full of wisdom and excellent life advice. Sometimes my job is just to sit and talk with the residents. It usually keeps them calm and gives them something to do if they are getting a little agitated. I usually really enjoy these simple moments because it is in these times that the residents give me some of the best advice I have ever received. They seems genuinely interested in me and my wellbeing, even if they do have to ask the same questions every half hour.
5. I know I will always have a story to tell.
Some of my most entertaining memories come from my year and a half working at the nursing home. My story about getting hit in the head with a beer bottle by a resident is pretty famous around the facility and all of the employees. Every new worker will know the story by the end of their first week or two.
6. I have as many grandparents as I could ever want.
I love my own grandparents very much, but it is nice that I have as many as I could ever want when I go to work in the evening. It means even more to me knowing that I can provide the love and attention they may be missing because they don’t have visitors very often.
My job at the nursing home has given me a lot of stress over the years, but the joy and happiness it provides me with more than makes up for it. I would not trade the relationships I have formed with the staff, residents, and families for anything in the world. They are all a part of my life; one of my favorite parts. As I begin the year of 2017, it is increasingly important to me to remember and build upon the lessons taught to me by my residents. It is time for me to finally take the treasured advice I've been given. After all, who knows more about living life to the fullest than people who have decades upon decades of life experience?
