So how do I start? I write only when it's coming from my heart and with a purpose. Every word that comes out from my mind is of value to me. To write to someone, you have to either make me really furious or inspired. My writing is not perfect. After all, I do not believe that contents free from grammatical errors means well-written. Using fancy words never equates authenticity. For as long as you stay truthful to the words you uttered or wrote, the targeted audience both listeners and readers will be captivated. Let me begin by stating what I thought of my days at work. I am a registered nurse, working for LA County. I served those who I call "the sickest of the sick and the poorest of the poor." It sounds heroic, doesn't it? The unfamiliarity of the nursing profession beyond the scrubs and what media offers would suggest that all nurses must be heroes. But is it true? Heroism by definition is produced through a noble act. But the conception of heroine juxtaposed against the reality. For instance, a nurse who administers meds and cleans his or her patient is not considered heroic because that is part of his or her job. So clearly, heroism rarely exists. But what we do have are GREAT LEADERS. So how do we define a leader? Having the title of a leader doesn't mean you are great at what you do. Oftentimes, recognitions and promotions are given to people who we least expect. Leaders do not only lead but also listen. Leaders are not only talkers but doers. When a difficult situation arises, true leaders emerge. The intent of this article is to recognize a person who is long overdue for exemplary work ethics, professionalism, leadership, and teamwork.
Emelita embodies the qualities essential of a great leader. She has always treated everyone with respect regardless of race. Although she is a charge nurse, she has never made us feel inferior but rather as a team with inputs as valuable as hers. She works with the utmost integrity worn across her shoulder at all times. She speaks calmly and never degrades us when we make mishaps but rather helps us to rise. Her manner of speaking is never offensive but rather encouraging. When the job gets so stressful, she helps us cope with our daily challenges not only through verbal encouragement but physically assisting us to finish our jobs. She understands the burden we carry as nurses. Most of all, she is genuinely concerned about our well-being. We are nurses but we do not have superhuman powers. Her constant reminder of helping each other so we can overcome our shift has led us to have better working relationships. If I may recall, when we did not have a manager, she took further responsibilities and led. She is truly the definition of a leader. Not even a plaque can justify Emelita's contribution to this hospital because she deserves more than that. Harbor-UCLA Medical Center is very lucky to have an outstanding employee like Emelita.