I write this post with overwhelming joy to share that two weeks ago I graduated RN school. Today the results are in and I passed NCLEX. I am now a Registered Nurse, wow it feels good to say that. These past two days of waiting for result from state board have been gruesome, and when I say gruesome, I’m talking sweating spells, anxiety, worry, not to mention, GI disturbances (I’ll spare you the details).  Many of us know that the “waiting time” for anything important to us stretches our patience.  A couple days feels like forever!
Having worked in healthcare more than 11 years, two years as a nurse’s aid, and nine years as an LPN, I knew one day I would reach the next step and be closer to my goal. Many tears, sweat, and even blood was shed in the last 2 1/2 years of nursing school. It has not been an easy road to say the least. But, I knew if I worked hard enough, with God’s strength and family and friends support (very much needed), I knew anything was possible. Many people may not fully understand how much this means to me. I learned many years ago that God had a plan for my life. His plans for me were even greater than I could ever imagine. It took me a while to understand that. I wanted to quit. At times, I would not get the grades I wanted (even after all night study sessions), while sometimes working 40hr work weeks. I felt defeated. Can I do this? It’s too stressful.. so much pressure. God says, “yes, you can.”
There are many times we go through trials and challenges, one after another, we feel worthless and powerless. But God says, “You are more than a conqueror.” We want to give up, then God says, “You can do this.” We want to say “I’m tired of fighting” and God says, ” I am your strength and comfort.” When we doubt ourselves, God is always there to remind us that we will overcome. Through challenges comes a greater level of faith and hope. Faith that God will see us through this and hope for our future.
Today, I am grateful that I did not give up. Today, I am grateful for special people that love and support us even through our darkest times. Today,  I am happy for those who push through despite their opposition. Today, I am grateful for educators that continue to influence this generation and impart knowledge and wisdom for us to strive to give our best. It never gets easier, you just get stronger.
Norma's 30 by 30 Project 