Facing death

As we entered the critical care area to visit a loved one, I had flash backs to my first nursing job at Baptist Hospital. Fresh, out of nursing school, I became the manager for the 34 bed unit. Scary. These patients were so sick and had more tubes coming out of them than fingers and toes. I have no idea how I survived those first few months. As we entered the pod I felt the sickness and somberness. Families hoping for miracles. Miracles already happening to some. Heartache from news. Hearts racing while waiting. Patients who know how bad they are. Families looking for signs of existence of life. The heart is such an amazing organ. The valves. The muscle. The arterial supply. The life blood that pulses through the lungs to carry oxygen. As the condition of one's heart is being evaluated it becomes evident how important the condition of life is. How in shape is my life? Have I lived so my heart is in the best shape it ouc