MY HEART SINGS

The moment I became a social worker, I knew death and dying was my calling. I have never been afraid to die, although would never want to become dependent. I worked for over 13 years in a hospital emergency room. One was often faced with sudden death. I would meet up with the families seeing great grief on their faces. I would tell them, "I am here for as long as you need me to be." I would then quite often see the subtle relief on their faces.

Hospice also deals with death, but most often it is not so sudden. Most patients and families have time to process their experience. As a hospice Social Worker, we walk in and validate what the patient and family are saying. I believe the best gift a social worker has is "Active listening." We can paraphrase back what we heard while validating one's emotions and grief.

Hospice draws folks who have huge hearts for this type of work. One cannot fake "heart" and families know we are sincere. We hear amazingly, "Thank you so much" often which is what keeps us coming back again and again.

After I did the admission over the phone today, I felt those same rewards. It is a bit difficult not being able to be there in person, but due to Corona Virus crisis, all of us need to be safe. I am so thankful to be able to do hospice work, which to me, is farthest from work anything can be.


MY HEART SINGS　

I left work three days ago
as guided by those politicians in charge
to keep all of us safe from each other
by staying home as "Shelter-in-Place."

The first day was hard
as I didn't know quite where to start.
I did a little work making phone calls
plus checking in with my co-workers
making sure they are all doing okay.

Facilities are keeping staff and families away
except those whom they define as "essential".
Social workers can accomplish much on the phone,
even though it always is better face-to-face.

I did an admission today over the phone.
The family and patient so understand why.
They so appreciated the call and support.
It left me with great satisfaction and humbling rewards.

Hospice work is so not work.
I am blessed to play such a part.
It makes my day so fulfilling.
It truly does make
          my heart sing.