I remember when I was nursing and a busy day of the busiest of days happened. Heavy cares, moody patients, difficult families, and a ripe round of C-diff topped it all off. When Meghan came in for report she was diligent in her notes and respectful to my comments as she listened to report about my particular facts. All day hitting her marks with meds and well checks. Very polite, professional, and courteous. In a staff of well-trained professional coworkers, she stood out to me. Two hours before the end of shift she came in to deliver my latest request. This after new admits, a somewhat combative patient, more than one confused patient, and many steps on those probably aching feet. Two wisps of hair out of place and a drawn look as she walked in the room apologizing for the delay of just 15 mins. I looked away remembering that feeling of many days like that. When I looked back her hair was in place and a smile on her face. Her sympathetic and empathetic heart shined as she put on her best "I'm here for you" demeanor. This is what nursing means to me and should mean to all who choose this profession. It's not about the check, it's not about the many thankless hours spent pouring yourself into a career that leaves so many battered, broken, and burned out. Her servant's heart shined on my life. Regardless of all her day had put her through. When I turned to look again, she was here for me. Nothing else seemed to matter at that moment and I felt that in my heart. That human connection that lifts us out of this misery and pain. Just another shift for her, but a moment of caring concern that truly blessed my heart. I feel better because she cared enough to convey sympathy for just another patient. To some, this is just a job and a check. To others, it's a calling. She's extraordinary because she answers the calling on her heart to share her heart with those receiving her care. Meghan stood out because, in my life, her heart stood out.