The end of 1 Peter 5:7 says, "He cares for you." My grandmother is quite the essential Southern lady. She has a standing hair appointment every Friday, a drawl that brings a smile to your face and is modest to a fault. The fault was our actual predicament when Granny was hospitalized and was assigned to a "Male Nurse". Her hesitation was obvious but she was also raised to never be insulting, especially to someone who is a hard worker. Nathan's countenance immediately brought comfort not only to grandmother but to the host of the family that would be circulating throughout her hospital room. It was obvious from our initial interaction that Nathan was knowledgeable. He worked with precision and skills on her ostomies and the other myriad of medical issues we would uncover throughout her stay. His explanations were simple but thorough and left everyone knowing exactly what steps we would encounter next. His touch was gentle, and he made certain always to explain to Granny what he would be doing and why it was important. His presence immediately brought peace. While we were happy to be leaving the hospital at the end of our stay Granny remarked that she appreciated Nathan and his kindness.
Several weeks passed and Granny was admitted to the hospital again. Her first question was to see Nathan. While that might seem like a little request to a hospital it was a big request from a sick patient to see a familiar and compassionate face. We were blessed once again to be in Nathan's care. When I asked Granny what she liked most about Nathan she said, "He does what he says he is going to do. He doesn't forget me." In uncertain times, especially uncertain times in a hospital I can think of no higher compliment or deeper need than, "He doesn't forget me." There have been many times throughout my life that my grandmother has reminded me of the fundamentals in the Bible but when I read 1 Peter 5:7 I will always think of Granny and Nathan and know he always made her feel cared for. What a meaningful legacy for a nurse.