When I Grow Up...

“¡Maestra, maestra, venga aquí pronto!” The students ran frantically toward the other thatched-roof hut, crying loudly for their teacher. Hearing the shrill cries, Fawna stepped outside, only to be repulsed by the sight that met her eyes. A chill ran up and down her spine and her mind began to spin—what should she do? Writhing on the ground not far from her hut was a fellow staff member. Although it seemed like ages, it was merely a matter of seconds before Fawna was by Ruan’s side with her first aid kit, assessing the injury. Many of the staff and students had been playing soccer in the field when suddenly, while proceeding to run after the ball, Ruan landed on a large piece of rebar which punctured his foot and was only millimeters from protruding out the other side. It was a result of nursing school combined with many earnest prayers that Fawna was able to properly care for the wound.

Caring for people and helping them in any way possible is a burden that is heavy on my heart. It grieves me to see someone hurting and not be able to ease their pain. It is not only my desire to ease physical pain, but also spiritual. Ellen G. White says in Testimonies, Vol. 7, p. 59 that “Medical missionary work is the right hand of the gospel. It is necessary to the advancement of the cause of God. As through it men and women are led to see the importance of right habits of living, the saving power of the truth will be made known. Every city is to be entered by workers trained to do medical missionary work.” My life aspirations are first to help people with their health and then to help save their souls. I believe that God is calling me to take nursing and it is with this degree that I will best be able to do my part to hasten His coming.