To Nurse or to Nurse

Ever faced with making a decision that will completely change your life trajectory?

You know, the big stuff.

New job. New town. New marriage. New baby.

*raises hand*

I have! All at once too :)

Over the last 12months I have moved to a new town, got married, had a baby, interviewed for 5 different jobs, worked 3 different ones, and am walking on egg shells with the current. Talk about some big changes!

For those of you that don't know me, I am a nurse. As a new mother, I am also on the journey of nursing my baby. A big learning curve in both departments this year!

Its no secret the challenges that those in healthcare are facing. It's also no secret how challenging it can be to nurse as a working nurse.

Mandates. Hormones. Contingencies. Pumping.

It's no easy feat making choices that will not only affect your livelihood but also the livelihood of the little hands and feet that depend on your every move.

Feel the weight yet? I sure do.

Nursing and nursing.

Two ever changing and challenging yet rewarding life experiences.

Nursing and pumping - can you tell? =D

I'm learning now more than ever to be strong in my choices and how important it is to say yes to what gives me peace. It says in the Bible to first not be anxious, to then pray with thanks and give your worries to the Lord. What comes next? God's peace. A peace that covers any mountain we are facing. A protection beyond what we can understand.

Now that sounds like a good thing! Something I need everyday, especially now.

Peace.

Opinions can be strong and can be given without warrant. I'm learning that there will always be someone telling you how to raise your babies the "right way." And today, there will always be someone telling you what you should and shouldn't do to be a nurse. Or to earn a living in practically any setting for that matter.

It's a tough spot to be in. However...

Even in not knowing what's to come, I know I can trust that God has a plan for my life and it will be for my good. I must stay strong and stand firm in my faith and my choices by his direction.

He will give me protection and he will give me peace.

I'm writing this to remember what I'm facing now so I can look back and see how God brought me through it all yet again. He always has. He always will.

Pray for me as I head into the unknown. Pray with me as we all face uncertain times and challenges. Being refined by the fire doesn't always feel great, but I know we will be stronger as we walk through these flames.

I hope this encourages you in knowing that you are not alone. I hope this will encourage myself in knowing that I am not alone. We need Jesus. We need each other. Let's not forget that.

Big hugs and lots of prayers for you today.

And to the little one who looks to me as his mama -- this is all for you! Love you sweet peanut :)