Times, they are a-changin'.....

(This cartoon cracks me up, by the way, and I couldn't resist.  You have to appreciate its sarcasm that while screaming a lack of compassion and bold misconceptions, is actually rooted in a harsh reality....)

So after much thought, prayer, consideration, and downright anguish, I accepted an offer for an ER position last week and will be starting my new job the week of Thanksgiving!  Rather appropriate timing as I reflect on all that has taken place to get me there...    I've worked in orthopedics for over 11 years here at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, and given that my career is zooming off in the radically different direction of forensic nursing, I felt that I could learn more in the ER setting, so I applied for a transfer.  Was it a difficult decision?  Absolutely!  As much as I love the IDEA of change and transition and trying new adventures, it's a harsh reality to uproot yourself from a very comfortable spot right smack in the middle of your COMFORT zone, and start something new. 

I guess here would be a good time insert an annoying cliche, like: "Force yourself out of your comfort zone!  You can only grow when you are willing to feel awkward and uncomfortable when trying something new."

Or maybe this one:  “We cannot expect to grow if we are too afraid or unwilling to change and face challenges. When we exit our everyday, mundane lifestyles to do something different we can experience growth, undiscovered strength, and new abilities within ourselves.” 

 Perhaps it was this one that spoke to me the most..... “Here's a scary thought: What if God called you to act beyond your comfort level? Would you be afraid? Would you try to explain it away or dismiss it as impractical? And in the process, would you miss out on a harvest opportunity for which God had explicitly prospered you in the first place?” 

So yes, when I prayed and asked God for a blessing and an opportunity, He gave me one, and I freaked out a little bit.  (sigh*  Lord, forgive me!!)  But I am rising to the challenge and moving forward, a whole new world awaits me, and is it possible that I feel - could it be?!...  an inkling of excitement??!!  Anticipation!??!  Really??!!  WOW.  I truly AM looking forward to this.  Lord, let me be humble, yet confident, easy to teach and willing to learn, easily correctable and difficult to rattle, fair and firm, yet compassionate and full of love.  And mostly Lord, let me see others through Your eyes.