Maryam is an exceptional nurse. She helped a patient through the most difficult time of her life. She touched the patient's life profoundly. She helped wash and comb the patient's hair and told her how beautiful she was. She provided much needed encouragement by being authentically present holding the patient's hand, smiling, and small talk. The patient shared her life's hardship and Maryam listened to her sympathetically being non-judgemental. The next day, Maryam extended a warm hug to her patient and told her she will never forget her, as tears ran down both of their faces.

Being a nurse is incomparable and blessed profession as we care for our patients we learn how to cover our sorrow with a smile. We learn how to give hope even though ours is not clearly seen. We learn how to give strength even at times when we are weak. When someone gives us a smile, holds our hands, and extend a "thank you" it connects us back to the passion of why we became a nurse...human dignity, compassion, dedication, integrity, stewardship, leadership, professionalism, and excellence.