A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal – Steve Maraboli
“Alone in a hospital bed in Baton Rouge, I lay in a cocoon of plaster, restraining my body in the hope of repairing my shattered bones. My hospital room was a quiet refuge from the physical and emotional trauma I had suffered at the hands of a rival biker 
gang. I was a victim in a violent gang war, enduring intense pain after being shot in my left arm and right leg with M-16 rifles.”
*Except from Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Nurses
A Quiet Refuge is my story of the life-giving support that I experienced from the comforting hands and benevolent heart of an incredible nurse named Reni. Thirty-eight years later and thousands of miles apart, I am still so grateful for her many acts of kindness. She taught me that compassion towards others can restore hope and give strength to the weak. We only spent a couple of months together, yet we formed a bond of friendship that continues to this day.
During the time of my suffering in the hospital, consumed with shame and condemnation, I felt abandoned and unloved. Reni’s compassionate acts proved to be a reminder of God’s love for me. Her selfless actions demonstrated her strong desire to alleviate my suffering. And isn’t that at the heart of compassion…the essence of feeling another’s pain, while easing their hurt.
The Lord calls us to compassion – Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous. 1 Peter 3:8 (NJKV)
Thank you Lord for your heart of compassion. May we be sensitive to share the hope and encouragement that your love brings to others in need.
Join the conversation – If you enjoyed this post, why not subscribe! I appreciate your comments and I hope you will recommend my site to other broken people.
Thanks for Sharing! Follow me on Twitter: @Maureen_Hager
Like my Facebook Page: Maureen Hager – Out of the Brokenness
Love and Blessings,
Maureen
Maureen Hager 