Finding Focus Amidst Turmoil

Nursing Students General Students

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I'll get it done. I always get it done. Maybe just writing this thread with provide me with the catharsis of talking to my peers and help me get through reviewing for the final exam that marks the gateway to my senior year as a nursing student.

However, I can't stop thinking about the massacre in Colorado. I am so far removed from the situation and don't know anyone there. Still, my poor heart is hung off some terrible cliff, full of sadness and fear for the world.

In my future as a nurse, I know I will be confronted with senseless deaths. As someone who lacks religiosity, I can't find comfort in knowledge that the departed souls of the deceased are bound for glory and the sweet hereafter. When faced with the stark evil that lurks in the hearts of men , I yearn for religion to comfort me, but I am forced to cope on my own.

So, I wonder how you have dealt with your encounters with evil or senseless deaths and maintained your focus on your duties as nurses or students.

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I am so comforted to know I'm not the only one feeling this way. I too, am not personally connected to the situation, nor am I religious. I spent all night last night trying to figure out why this has affected me so. Thank you for sharing this :)

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

As we get older I think the realization of our own mortality becomes more of the reality. I think as nurses we have a deeper appreciation of our everyday lives seeing how easily they can end.

What do I do? I drive myself mad at times with hyper-vigilance about my kids.......my husband snaps me back to reality when I need it. I am thankful everyday for the graces I have in my life regardless of the challenges I face. I always say I love you. I never go to bed angry and I pray to God to help me find peace. I know it can all be gone tomorrow so I appreciate what I have today......and if something does happen those who I love know I love them no matter what.

It's OK to feel these senseless acts. But it can't paralyze you. I tell my children I am a crazed individual because I know evil isn't necessarily in Hell. I know God won't give me anything he doesn't think I can handle....but like the letters I sent to Santa Clause for what I wanted for Christmas. I send my letters to God a small reminder list of what I really can't handle, and pray for strength.

I hope this helped some.

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