This month when those in attendance shared “what is on your mind about nursing,” for many the theme was one of discouragement, disillusionment, and uncertainty about the future. One was concerned about finding a job after searching for several months. Another has a job but is finding it difficult to reconcile personal goals with her organization’s goals. Yet another expressed concern that the goals of the institution in which she worked seemed to be drifting away from a patient-centered focus and toward one that was finance-centered. And one of the students present was exasperated with the laissez faire attitude of classmates who seemed not to be living up to what she would have expected of them – and of herself.

The thing about a Nursing Salon is this – each of us has our own concerns and challenges, and we often feel quite isolated and alone in facing those demons. Yet in the environment of the salon that evening, each person was able to offer support, encouragement, and a different perspective on the stressors facing others in the room. In that process, each of us also gained a different view of our own challenges. As we ended the evening, each person “checked out” expressing thanks to those present for helping him or her to face tomorrow with hope that things can be better and that there are others who are experiencing similar difficulties. What more can we ask for than to share our thoughts with others who will listen and understand without grand explanations. It is the reason we keep returning – and the reason new people are joining us.

Thanks, Marie, for your vision and your encouragement to others to follow your lead in holding nursing salons.