Moving on...up? Down? Sideways? Or just on?

Ch-ch-ch-changes. Good ones. Good ones are in the air. After ending last night on a somewhat interesting note, I realized these changes are good and are bound to happen sooner or later. I know it's only been 18 months doing what I do, and I hate to say that I'm starting to feel a bit burned out. I haven't been getting out of it what I used to. Granted I know and realize that this job isn't about me nor has it ever been, but things that I used to not let bother me are starting to bother me. Like when psychotic patients cuss me out, chew me out and make ludicrous demands (not all from the same patient. This has been a series of them since probably about Christmas). I've been finding myself second guessing some of their states of mind and if they really are indeed the way they are because of illness or some other underlying problem, or if they are just perhaps the way they are solely on circumstance. I've come to realize these are dangerous thoughts I've been having, and the fact they keep occurring to me suggests that this is no longer what I am meant to do, if I'm going to be honest with myself.

Now please don't misunderstand me. Not every day has been like that. In fact they've been rare. But the fact that this is the way it is to me tells me that I have to do something about it. It's not fair to the patients if their staff isn't 100% in it anymore. Since I've been working where I do, I've had a heart for those with substance abuse problems. Anyone who has worked with me knows this. I've been waiting and praying for opportunities to work there, and I missed an opportunity in the fall, which was very frustrating. On Tuesday, another open door showed up....for day shift. I thought to myself I really have nothing to lose and I'll just apply and see what happens. If it's meant to be then it'll be. So I applied and prayed about it Tuesday night. Come into work yesterday to find out that once my current job gets filled the new job is mine. (Cue ridiculous picture)

High fives all around!!!! 

I'm excited, a bit nervous, but really ready to do this! I've been ready for a change for a bit of time now, and this has come at a pretty opportune time. Still not sure on an exact start day, since like I said they have to fill my position first. This job has already had its fair share of sacrifices to be made, like missing church every other Sunday, but....it's good. I think it'll be ok. I know it'll take me a while to adjust, but like I said I'm really ready to do this. I've already had the support from some of the staff over there and well wishes from my current staff. Again, like I said, I have thoroughly enjoyed the joys and challenges that have come with my current job. I love what I do. I love being a nurse, most especially a mental health nurse. I love the patients. I love my co-workers and have been so blessed and privileged to work alongside a superb bunch. I am earnestly praying and looking forward to the ways that God will use me in this new position. It will come with its batch of rough days without a doubt. In the meantime I'm going to continue to enjoy doing what I do while waiting for the chance to start something new. It's been fun!