Where Civilization Starts

So, things are looking a little uncivilized at times out there.

People are getting information from a lot of different sources, and at times are doing things that we, as health care providers, might see as ignorant and risky.

It seems, at times, as providers, some people might see us as villains!

This can evoke legitimate feelings of anger and frustration. That’s OK, we have the capacity to seek out safe people to talk about that with and retain our dignity. We have outlets such as prayer, good self-care, and meditation at our disposal.

Let us try to remember to be compassionate – even if others might not seem to be at times.

Why you might ask?

Because as health care providers we are the example and providers of civilized society.

You may doubt that, and I was not even aware of it, until I recently read this story online:

"Years ago, anthropologist Margaret Mead was asked by a student what she considered to be the first sign of civilization in a culture. The student expected Mead to talk about fishhooks or clay pots or grinding stones.

But no.

Mead said that the first sign of civilization in an ancient culture was a femur (thighbone) that had been broken and then healed. Mead explained that in the animal kingdom, if you break your leg, you die. You cannot run from danger, get to the river for a drink or hunt for food. You are meat for prowling beasts. No animal survives a broken leg long enough for the bone to heal.

“A broken femur that has healed is evidence that someone has taken time to stay with the one who fell, has bound up the wound, has carried the person to safety and has tended the person through recovery. Helping someone else through difficulty is where civilization starts,” Mead said."

We are at our best when we serve others. Those who serve in healing capacities are where civilization starts.

Let us not allow our frustration to get to us. Let us move forward using our skills heads held high, with dignity, knowing not only what we do helps people, but it is the origin of advancement of people in the world.

In the Christian scriptures Titus, chapter 2, verse 7, we find some common sense advise;

“Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity.”

Let us also remember that those who might appear to have strong feelings about providers are in the minority. The vast majority of people appreciate health care providers now, more than ever.

This week is Nurses Week, next week is Hospital Week. Let us be aware that in the sense of the highest and best Truth it is still a wonderful world. Let us do our best to accept people’s appreciation with grace and thankfulness.

Michelle Obama once said something in a speech that I did not take so much as a political statement, it sounds more like something spiritual, or something someone might tell their children:

"When someone is cruel or acts like a bully, you don't stoop to their level," she said. "No, our motto is, 'When they go low, we go high.'"

Let us keep our heads high, friends. Our children, and really, the world, are watching.

Always remember that as healers, we not only heal, we are where civilization starts.

I thank you for reading, be blessed this day.