This Week's Lesson...Forgiveness

Often in the developed world consciously and subconsciously think we are going to help those "less fortunate." We have prepared lesson plans, activities, itineraries, gathered stickers and bubbles and other supplies. We have prayed, raised support, and feel ready to go love others. All of this is necessary and important, but I think we often are unprepared for learning and receiving from those we serve.

This week's lesson was taught by an 8 year old girl Erissa.  She is here with her father. She had surgery on both legs to straighten them. Although she is officially an outpatient now, she lives far away from the port. Mercy Ships provides housing and food for patients like this while they still need follow up care. The patients and one caregiver usually stay in the HOPE Center. Due to the quick change in countries, the HOPE Center is still undergoing renovations.  Her father and her have been staying in the ward without formal nursing care until the HOPE Center is ready.

Photo credit: Mercy Ships. Having fun on Deck 7

From the beginning of her time here on the ship, it was been special to see the father daughter relationship. His genuine care and love for her shines through his interactions and encouragement to her. Erissa has been awarded best giggle by Dr. Frank. Her smile and giggle truly do bring a smile to your face.

Photo credit: Mercy Ships. I can hear the sweet giggle now. 

Erissa's first outpatient appointment day arrived. It was time to pull the pin and remove staples, take xrays, and get new casts. As soon as I told them through the translator, her smile turned to anxious look. Her father's reassurance gave her the courage she needed. She was so brave during the cast removal. The combination of fear and pain brought tears and cries during the pin pull and staple removal. With hugs and snuggles from her father, she quickly calmed.

After the xrays were taken (about 20 minutes later), new casts were applied. She kept her legs still and slowly the smile returned. By the time both cast were finished, she was giggling again and playing with us. This has happened many times with different children, but for some reason that day Dean and I were talking and marveling about how forgiving the children are and how quickly they forgive us.

Photo credit to Mercy Ships: One of the nurses on the ward

When I was thinking about the forgiveness the verse Jesus instructed us to have faith like a child kept coming to mind. Part of faith is trust. Once trust is broken, it is very difficult for adults to trust fully again. It takes time to build trust back. One of the steps to building it, it forgiveness. Giving the person a second chance.

Children, however, are quick to forgive. Watching the crew children and siblings, reminds me of how quickly my brother and I would forgive. Children can be fighting and angry one minute, but the next best friends again. We as physical therapists do challenge them to perform tasks they do not want. Sometimes, we do perform painful procedures. Most of the time, if not immediately after, soon after, the children are smiling and playing with us again like nothing happened. Giving us another chance. Forgiveness.

So lesson learned for this week. Now, I need to practice it.

Photo Credit: Mercy Ships. Thank you for the valuable lesson Erissa