Mary’s Musings: Finding Inspiration

By Mary Bridges, chaplain

“You must do the things you think you cannot do.”  — Eleanor Roosevelt

I seem to have lost my sense of time since we encountered a world-altering virus. I think you’ll read this column in October, but then again, we’ve missed so many special occasions, holidays, and time with family and friends that you could be reading it in the 13th month of 2020. Did you know Ethiopia’s calendar has 13 months?  The 13th month is called Pagume, and comes from the Greek word epagomene, which means “days forgotten when a year is calculated.”  

None of us had any idea how a novel virus would change almost every aspect of our lives. It has been a time of struggle for everyone, but each person’s circumstances are different. There have been times at work where I just wanted to throw up my hands and say “enough!” Without exception, what has gotten me through the difficult days are our residents. Their assurance that we will persevere has inspired me.  

When I took disaster training following a tornado in Hoisington, we learned that when amusing or inspirational signs appeared in the rubble, it was the beginning of healing and hope. At chapel, I asked each floor to come up with a unique motto, slogan or saying.  I’m sharing these below so you may also feel a sense of hope, courage and positivity if you are having a difficult day. Blessings to each of you.

1st floor Tower:

Encouragers of anxious hearts. Blossoms come out of darkness into the light.

2nd floor West Tower:

We are the biggest; striving to be the best!

2nd floor East Tower:

Love, laughter, smiles, and humor required.

3rd floor East Tower:

Good friends, a great 3rd floor. Life does not get any better.

4th floor Tower:

Together we are number one. We can overcome!

5th floor Tower:

Where there’s a will, there is a way!

6th floor Tower:

We are the top of the Kingdom and tallest in our world.

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