Meaningful Reflections: Blessing of the Hands
Meaningful Reflections with Chaplain Kim Crawford Meeks is a monthly column that provides words of encouragement for associates at USA Health.
By Kim Crawford Meeks
Spiritual Care Manager
Blessing of the Hands is a ceremony that was created for Nurses Week many years ago. As chaplain at USA Health, I offered this ceremony to all hospital employees, because each and every role in a medical facility is of such great importance.
Dr. Seuss said, “To the world you may be one person; but to one person you may be the world.” I visit with many patients who have varying levels of concerns, anxieties and needs. Whether you are the person registering a patient, providing security, serving as their nurse, anesthesiologist, doctor, physical therapist, social worker, cleaning their room, bringing them food or smiling at them as you pass by them in the hallway, you have the opportunity to be the world to them in that moment you share.
During times of distress, as humans it is a natural response to appreciate the willingness of someone to hold an outstretched hand. We are not able to “fix” how people feel, but we certainly can let them know we care. This Blessing of the Hands is for every associate of USA Health in appreciation of your service, work and dedication to each individual soul you impact. Thank you for all you do.
Blessing of the Hands
Blessed be these hands that have touched life and felt pain.
Blessed be these hands that have embraced with compassion.
Blessed be these hands that have anointed the sick with mercy and hope.
Blessed be these hands that have held the grieving and wiped away tears.
Blessed be these hands for they have incredible purpose in this hospital and in this world.
May you be blessed with a spirit of gentleness and a heart that is tender.
May you be blessed with a spirit of strength shining through you.
May you be blessed with a spirit of compassion.
May you be blessed with a spirit of openness, understanding, and reverence.
May light surround you and love enfold you.
May you receive more blessings than you can think or imagine.
Chaplain Kim Crawford Meeks and the Meaningful Reflections Line can be reached at 251-451-9015.
