Meaningful Reflections: USA Health employees embrace ‘Be Kind’ theme
We are going to have many emotions, thoughts, and opinions, but we always have the option in all circumstances to be kind.
By Kim Crawford Meeks
Spiritual Health & Counseling Manager
“Be Kind” was the reminder on the bracelets that I gave out this year during the Blessing of the Hands bestowed on staff members during National Nurses Week last month. Nearly 500 employees received the bracelets, and many who saw their friends wearing one reached out to see if they could have one, too.
The bracelets aren’t any type of fine jewelry, but the message is simple and strong: “Be Kind.” I think that people like that it is not a long quote or philosophical idea for discussion, but a direct statement, because kindness is always the right choice.
We are going to have many emotions, thoughts, and opinions, but we always have the option in all circumstances to be kind. Most people would probably say that they want to be known for their kindness, and who would not want to be treated with that same kindness?
Valerie Heinl, MHA, MSN, RN, chief nursing officer at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital, stopped me to tell me a story about her “Be Kind” bracelet. She took a family member to University Hospital a couple of weeks ago and did not mention that she was an employee, nor did she have on her badge.
A nurse said to her, “Oh, you must work here.” Valerie asked her how she knew. The nurse replied, “Because of your bracelet.” What an awesome message our employees are sending as they wear these “Be Kind” bracelets, but also what an amazing creed we have embraced.
These cute bracelets are certainly not being worn by our employees for fashion; they are being worn as a message that we stand together in kindness. After all, people do not have to agree or understand one another to be kind.
I am so very proud of our USA Health family for embracing the theme of kindness of the Spiritual Health and Counseling Department this year. I think perhaps we are ready to take kindness to the next level. Kindness is free; let’s pass it on.
Be Kind – Kindness is the Spark that Ignites peace, joy, and hope!
Learn more about Spiritual Health and Counseling at USA Health. Patients, family members, and USA Health associates are encouraged to call the Meaningful Reflections Line at 251-445-9016 for a daily recorded word of encouragement.
