Veinticinco

Study the traits of human nature exhibited all around; reflect on your own habits and ways in the light of your learning; practice improvement; practice compassion. This is the order of my day and night and I give thanks what a consuming study it is...otherwise I might lapse into unworthy or unkind thoughts more often I suspect!

I give thanks for Netflix and catch up TV also (Wow what those Devon and Cornwall police have to put up with!) Oh, and catch up snoozes too! For quickly spotting the kind of patient who asks you a seemingly innocent question, to which you make a brief factual (but hopefully friendly) reply, thereby giving them the chance to respond 'Well, I...' and launch into the lengthy summary of physical complaints and emotional grievances you've already heard them tell at least three other people in the last hour or two! I'm never sure why they do this or what sounds you're supposed to make in reply? Interest? But what if they think you want to hear more? Respect that they have tolerated such inhumane or unsuitable treatment. Um...There are worse things than waiting for diagnosis..
or nil by mouth! Commiseration? A bit maybe, but when they're really complaining that the overstretched hospital staff are failing to put their needs above all others... that's not going to happen is it? Especially if they're well enough to be moaning about it! Oh goodness me I give thanks that this is a gratitude blog and I've remembered to stop moaning about it all myself!

I give thanks sometimes partners, family and carers aren't always arrogant, insensitive and indignant if told they too must obey the hospital rules, or accept that staff too may have some relevant knowledge and skills... Where is a good stuff starched matron when you need one eh?

For the very different husband of a stoma patient kindly steering the specialist nurse to me when she'd finished with his wife so I could blag some dry wipes. Nothing else quite does the job they do!

I give thanks after waiting all day I've finally been told my dialysis will start at 5pm. This is a great shame as I won't be able to eat or greet Rachel properly if she manages to make it, but at least I'll get a change of scene and position.