One theme in today’s gospel that really caught my attention is servant leadership. The idea of “The Master” washing the feet of the “lesser ones” reminds me that true leaders do not see themselves as better than those they lead. Rather, the true leader serves those that are being lead. In my various leadership roles in both my civilian and military careers, I always thought that my major responsibility (other than the basic admin-type things to be done) was to remove barriers and create the environment for those I was leading to SHINE and perform at their best. I’m not saying I always did it right but truly tried to do it for the benefit of those we served be they students or clients.
There is one experience that I remember definitely kept me in “my place” and reminded me that I was there to serve! It was a weekend field exercise with ROTC students shortly after Easter. My role was flexible to do what was necessary to make the exercise a successful learning experience – I was even an “infiltrator” on Saturday. On Sunday, however, the “troop medical clinic” needed staff – the nursing students were needed elsewhere, so I became the main source of care. There I was (the highest-ranking officer there) taking care of cadets’ feet. As the very sweaty, dirty socks were removed, I carefully wiped their feet and provided care for the blisters that had developed over the weekend. Many apologized that their feet were smelly and dirty (it had rained the night before so everything was muddy). Yet, I was thinking what a privilege I have as a nurse to serve others in this way. The rank didn’t matter, the position didn’t matter, what mattered was that someone was in need and with the Grace of God, I was given the opportunity to provide what they needed at that point. I truly felt blessed and those moments some 16 years ago are still etched into my heart.
God gives us so many occasions to do the right thing, to serve others, to be His hands and feet on Earth. Some professions/occupations provide very direct opportunities for serving but I think in reality, every person, every “job” provides that opening to serve and to extend kindness. As the saying goes, in a world where you can be anything, be kind!!
I asked for Strength.….….
And God gave me Difficulties to make me strong.
I asked for Wisdom.….….
And God gave me Problems to solve.
I asked for Prosperity.….….
And God gave me Brain & Brawn to work.
I asked for Courage.….….
And God gave me Danger to overcome.
I asked for Love.….….
And God gave me Troubled people to help.
I asked for Favors.….….
And God gave me Opportunities.
I received nothing I wanted; I received everything I needed In the retreats with women in recovery, I loved to share The Butterfly Lesson. It tells of a man “assisting” a butterfly to emerge and in so doing limits the potential of the butterfly.
It concludes with the following: Matthew West provides his perspective in this song: Do Something.
And as David declares in the Responsorial Psalm, forever I will sing of the Goodness of God.
Nancy Shirley
I returned to Creighton in December 2003 having previously taught at Creighton from 1980-1989 and involved in many campus activities including ILAC and CEC House. Since returning, assumed Faculty and Administrative roles on both Omaha and Phoenix campus prior to retirement August 2022. Served as the Nursing Director for ILAC from 2013 – 2021 and as a reservist in the Army Nurse Corps for 23 years.
I am a grateful child of God, wife, mother, nana, and retired nursing professor. My husband and I met at church and have walked this extraordinary journey together experiencing CEC in 2004 and growing more committed to our beliefs. In addition to my husband, I am blessed with a wonderful daughter and son, who in turn are blessed with wonderful partners. My son’s four children bring us all endless joy and delight. My daughter’s daughter (our youngest grandchild in Phoenix) has been a true gift beyond description. In early 2023, I became a Great-grandma!! I am now retired faculty at Creighton having taught nursing here from 1980-1989 and returned “home” in 2003 to teach nursing at all levels and to administer the undergraduate program on both campuses until 2022. My mantra has been My life is God’s gift to me; what I do with my life is my gift to God!!
Now in retirement, I appreciate more and more all the ways that I find God in my life especially through my family and garden and through music and song. I find listening to Christian music daily in the car keeps the right message in my head. It is, indeed, a blessing to be part of this ministry. Writing reflections is an opportunity to ponder the readings deeply in my heart and to share those musings and some music that further touches my soul. I am a recipient of God’s grace with each one I write.
