East Vs. West

East Versus West Early in my nursing career, I had the opportunity to work under two extremely different charge nurses. Dolly "West" and Betty "East" as they were jokingly called, ruled the third floor for over twenty-five years. Both ladies are retired now and, I understand, immensely happy to be relieved of their duties and responsibilities. I would venture a guess that this is the first time they have ever agreed on anything. Betty was …

…death of my love affair with the nursing profession. She burned me up, and she burned me out. She aggravated me, and she frustrated me. She taught me to exercise self control and self discipline that I never dreamed I possessed. Betty taught me nursing; and Dolly, about myself. Between them, Betty "East" and Dolly "West" contributed to my growth as a professional and as a person. I don't regret my experience with either lady.