JONATHAN C DOW
Take Out the Trash
We have a trashcan under our kitchen sink. It's an odd size in the fact that small garbage bags are too small and "kitchen size" bags are, well, too large. While we've opted to use the latter, the reality is that even when the trashcan is full, there is still room in the bag. So, we've gotten in the habit of pulling the partially filled bag . . .
Posted in: #assurance#characterdevelopment
Context is Everything
A bit of background: The medical facility where I serve houses more than ten clinics offering care for both adult and pediatric patients. And while the building is filled with a variety of different providers every day, there is one constant: the complex software that everyone uses to serve our patients, ironically named EPIC.
Within . . .
A Divine "Shhh"
In my previous blog entry, "MASTERclass," I shared how the relationship between a vocal student and his operatic mentor, captured in this video clip, was analogous to our encounters with God. I must confess, however, that there was something that transpired that I did not include in that blog.
The incident happens right at . . .
MASTERclass
Not too long ago, I came across a video clip of a vocal masterclass. If that term is new to you, a masterclass is an instructional experience for students led by an expert in their field of study. As a piano major in college, I was always fascinated by the unique group learning dynamic of an instructor publically working one-on-one with . . .
Posted in: #characterdevelopment#guidance#leadership
How Long, O Lord?
I have a friend, a dear "mom" in the faith to me, who suffers from chronic pain. Though some days are better than others, she lives with a baseline of palpable discomfort. And while the empowering grace on her life to persevere in joyful faith is a powerful testimony to many, compassion in me often prompts the lament of the . . .
Posted in: #characterdevelopment#healing#hope#peace
Last Day: Lessons Learned
10 Experiences at Work that Have Changed My Life
Today is my last day working at the Children's Hospital. Monday, I will change departments within the hospital system and move to a brand-new clinic that is just three miles from my home.
When I reflect on the last 4 1/2 years, my heart is overwhelmed with gratitude. As I often have told the families I serve, I get to see miracles every . . .
Step Out
Each morning, the walk from my car to the hospital requires me to pass through a busy parking garage. Occupying an entire city block, the first level hosts the convergence of first-time families and garage-seasoned staff. Unsure about the complicated maze of multiple entrances, tall speed bumps, and hairpin turns, guests often creep through . . .