There comes a time in everyone’s life when an occurrence arises that gives one the opportunity to reflect on their lives and focus on the importance or unimportance of what their priorities are. This past week I have had such an occurrence.

Tuesday, February 3, started like any other day, up at 5:30am, go through the routine of preparing yourself for another day of work and at approx. 6:15 I started the car and one heartbeat later my day changed. Suddenly it wasn’t routine any more, it felt like I was carrying the weight of the world in my legs, struggling to get back in the house and evaluate what was happening.

The next thing I was keenly aware of was the emergency room of the Berwick Hospital and found out I was suffering from Atrial fibrillation. My next self evaluation was one of shock and disbelief, laying on my back, tubes running from both arms and wires attached all over my body, feeling like a circuit board of a computer. The silent pleas for answers were running through my mind like, “God, why me? Why now? What have I done to deserve this?” Questions I never expected to be answered and began the slide into self sorrow.

Finally, there came a time of peace and quiet as the poking, probing and the hustle and bustle over me came to an end. I laid my head back on the pillow and allowed my mind to go blank. As I listened to the steady beep of the monitor a warm hand laid rest on my right shoulder and a quiet, but, firm voice said, “Robert, pay attention.” I looked up to where the voice came from and there wasn’t anyone there, but the sensation of the hand on my shoulder remained for a few seconds more.

At that very moment I knew this event wasn’t about my tragedy and the rest of the week I just marveled at the level of professionalism around me. I was awed at the display of dedicated, compassion and professionalism of the nurses in the ICU ward I was in. From the doctors, nurses, food service and house cleaning personnel I wish to convey my deepest heartfelt thank you for your service and dedication to your community.

I filled much of my remaining stay in hospital focused in my studies of law and the occasional distraction as nurses and doctors came to draw blood, change IV bags, and the other things I guess they needed to do. The real eye opener came as many of the nurses began conversing about what I was studying. I began explaining that I Was a member of The Patriot’s Voice and was learning as much law, case analysis, and legal writing through need in our pursuit of holding school districts accountable in their spending practices. The comments I have received has turned the need into desire.

Each one of those nurses has touched my life in ways they would never comprehend. The overwhelming feeling of purpose in our pursuit of accountability and responsibility has not been and will not be in vain. The most important realization I came away with is that this little tragedy in my life isn’t a tragedy at all. It is one of the most profound gifts I have ever received. If I live another day or another twenty years, I now know my life has purpose.

 

Robert Runyon

The Patriot's Voice