Once again I find myself in total shock as I watch many of our politicians jumping on the healthcare reform bandwagon. Obviously, I find much humor in my disappointment, after calling and writing my elected officials who ignored my request for more information on this complicated legislation. I have to say it is hard for me to support any type of government policy that makes drastic changes in the status quo while that policy is so poorly understood by the public as well as the government leaders who are voting on it.
Here are my two cents worth about bandwagons and why I recommend avoiding them at all costs. The word “bandwagon” has always been one of those hot words for me, causing visions of red while heightening my defenses on whatever the subject may be. Abraham Lincoln is one of my favorite U.S. Presidents. Recently, I researched his management philosophies, which I believe were centuries ahead of their time. I discovered the true meaning of “bandwagon” and how Lincoln used it to his advantage. Literally, a bandwagon is a wagon that carries a band in a parade or circus. The phrase “jump on the bandwagon” was introduced into American politics in 1848 by Dan Rice, a professional circus clown and President Lincoln’s official election campaign court jester. Rice used the bandwagon to gain attention for campaign appearances.
“Jump on the bandwagon” was used as a derogatory phrase, implying that people were associating themselves with some sort of success without ever considering that association. Today, seemingly, many of our politicians are once again eager to jump on another bandwagon that seems to be a hot topic—healthcare reform. I struggle to comprehend the urgency of this race to push such an important piece of legislation, one that could profoundly affect our personal and financial well being as well as the structure of our healthcare system.
I do not believe in mixing politics and healthcare. Individually, we need to do some soul searching to determine what healthcare really means to us and how we envision our healthcare system in the future. Citizens may want to ask this question: Do I want more individual control over my healthcare options and costs, or am I willing to relinquish choices for a more universal type of healthcare controlled by the government? Actually, healthcare reform isn’t about what it means to me or to the politicians; it’s about what it means to you.
So, before jumping on the bandwagon, your first step is to gather the facts. The second step is to soul search and make sure that the bandwagon is playing your kind of music, and the third step is to know the parade route and the audience. Nothing is worse than playing “Here Comes Santa Claus” in the Fourth of July parade.
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
A Christmas Story
I started reading Christmas stories to groups when I was only 5 years old. I guess I’ve always had a knack for storytelling because as I stood before my brother’s 3rd grade class and read ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, I didn’t realize that the book was upside down. Although my telling of Clement Clarke Moore’s story was not verbatim, nonetheless, its spirit and meaning were very much alive. Because, you see, the spirit of Christmas resides in the hearts and minds of children; written words will never express the true meaning of Christmas that lives within us.
As a child I can remember our family going to the hospital cafeteria so that we could eat Christmas dinner with my mom when she was at work. Therefore, I am confident that I have had more holiday meals in a hospital than I have at home. That experience gives me an eccentric feeling of belonging to something that is in constant motion—never pausing or wavering from caring, giving, or helping another who is a little less fortunate.
As an adult I have felt the pain of seeing a mother dying of cancer on Christmas day as her 5-year-old-son struggles to understand what dying means. Then that same little boy returns on Valentine’s Day bearing bags of candy hearts along with crayon messages of what nurses mean to him. During those times, I understand what nursing is and the impact we have on another life during moments of weakness when one’s chin quivers under the weight of his world. I will never forget that somber day as I watched a little boy walk hand in hand with his father after their lives were changed forevermore. My drive home that day was filled with dark images flashing through my mind as I had become silent and numb in search of the Joy of Christmas.
I realize that happiness and joy does not come elaborately wrapped and placed under a tree, but instead, comes from the heart and in a moment when we connect with what is really important in life. The gift of health is so fragile and precious, and yet most people take it for granted. The loss of health doesn’t affect just the afflicted; it stirs many emotions and impacts many lives for generations to come. For me, the meaning of Christmas is about a smile, a chuckle in one’s heart, the warmth of family, and being healthy. Take the time this holiday season to be kind to one another, to smile, to laugh, and to exchange good tidings.
Believe in the wonder, delight in the magic. Merry Christmas!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
As a child I can remember our family going to the hospital cafeteria so that we could eat Christmas dinner with my mom when she was at work. Therefore, I am confident that I have had more holiday meals in a hospital than I have at home. That experience gives me an eccentric feeling of belonging to something that is in constant motion—never pausing or wavering from caring, giving, or helping another who is a little less fortunate.
As an adult I have felt the pain of seeing a mother dying of cancer on Christmas day as her 5-year-old-son struggles to understand what dying means. Then that same little boy returns on Valentine’s Day bearing bags of candy hearts along with crayon messages of what nurses mean to him. During those times, I understand what nursing is and the impact we have on another life during moments of weakness when one’s chin quivers under the weight of his world. I will never forget that somber day as I watched a little boy walk hand in hand with his father after their lives were changed forevermore. My drive home that day was filled with dark images flashing through my mind as I had become silent and numb in search of the Joy of Christmas.
I realize that happiness and joy does not come elaborately wrapped and placed under a tree, but instead, comes from the heart and in a moment when we connect with what is really important in life. The gift of health is so fragile and precious, and yet most people take it for granted. The loss of health doesn’t affect just the afflicted; it stirs many emotions and impacts many lives for generations to come. For me, the meaning of Christmas is about a smile, a chuckle in one’s heart, the warmth of family, and being healthy. Take the time this holiday season to be kind to one another, to smile, to laugh, and to exchange good tidings.
Believe in the wonder, delight in the magic. Merry Christmas!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Joy, Loss, and Holidays
A couple of days before Thanksgiving, a good friend of mine telephoned to tell me that her father had been killed in a car wreck. Suddenly, I found myself without words, and my realization that she could not see my reaction made the moment more awkward. The silence that filled my head was broken only by her sobs of sadness as my mind reeled and searched for a word—any word of comfort—that I might offer. I have found myself speechless on only a few occasions and this was one of those times. The sound of silence was deafening, and the world around me moved in slow motion as I recalled a quote from an old movie, “For some moments in life, there are no words.”
For most people the holiday season is filled with joy, celebration, and good tidings. However, many suffer in silence during the holidays. Forty-five years ago, my paternal grandmother died on Thanksgiving Day, and I have an aunt who still has difficulty celebrating the holiday season. Regardless of time passed, I think there will always be a void after the death of a loved one. Certainly, a death on special days, such as birthdays or holidays, presents memories that can overshadow celebrations. Grief, as well as how we react and deal with loss, is unique to each of us. Loss comes in many different forms: we can lose a loved one, a body function, a job, or a pet. It’s important to not trivialize a loss with well-intentioned words: “I know how you feel”; “It was only a dog”; “It was God’s will”; or “At least he didn’t suffer.” These statements are of little consolation to those who are grieving. Again, there are no magic words to take away the pain; what may offer more comfort is a hug with the words “I am so sorry.”
If you find yourself grieving this holiday season, here are a few tips that you might find helpful:
• Increase your positive outlook. A Scottish study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine has found that physical activity for just 20 minutes a week is enough to boost mental health. Activities include walking, swimming, gardening, and even housework. The greatest impact was derived from sports, which lowered the risk of distress and anxiety by as much as 33%. Before starting any new exercise or diet, consult your healthcare provider.
• Allow time to feel sad or to have a good cry.
• Be cautious with the use of alcohol or medications.
• Try to keep your routine; eat as well as you can and get plenty of rest.
• Set priorities. Grief is exhausting; you may tire quickly, so save your energy for the most important things.
• Attend a lecture or workshop on how to get through the holidays. Many hospitals and churches will offer these resources at no cost.
• Realize that the anticipation of a holiday or family event may be more difficult than the actual day.
These are only a few suggestions you may find helpful. Another great resource is the American Hospice Foundation; visit their Web site: www.americanhospice.org. You can also reach out to friends, family, and clergy to help you through this difficult time. Know that grief is normal and tears are healthy. When those around you tear up, don’t turn your back—embrace them and show that you care. The holidays, at best, are stressful occasions in our lives. If you find yourself overwhelmed, reach out to friends and family or talk with a professional counselor. Most importantly, engage the holiday, be with friends and family, and remember those you have lost. You might be surprised that this holiday season may be very special to you in many ways. Merry Christmas to you and may you find Peace!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
For most people the holiday season is filled with joy, celebration, and good tidings. However, many suffer in silence during the holidays. Forty-five years ago, my paternal grandmother died on Thanksgiving Day, and I have an aunt who still has difficulty celebrating the holiday season. Regardless of time passed, I think there will always be a void after the death of a loved one. Certainly, a death on special days, such as birthdays or holidays, presents memories that can overshadow celebrations. Grief, as well as how we react and deal with loss, is unique to each of us. Loss comes in many different forms: we can lose a loved one, a body function, a job, or a pet. It’s important to not trivialize a loss with well-intentioned words: “I know how you feel”; “It was only a dog”; “It was God’s will”; or “At least he didn’t suffer.” These statements are of little consolation to those who are grieving. Again, there are no magic words to take away the pain; what may offer more comfort is a hug with the words “I am so sorry.”
If you find yourself grieving this holiday season, here are a few tips that you might find helpful:
• Increase your positive outlook. A Scottish study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine has found that physical activity for just 20 minutes a week is enough to boost mental health. Activities include walking, swimming, gardening, and even housework. The greatest impact was derived from sports, which lowered the risk of distress and anxiety by as much as 33%. Before starting any new exercise or diet, consult your healthcare provider.
• Allow time to feel sad or to have a good cry.
• Be cautious with the use of alcohol or medications.
• Try to keep your routine; eat as well as you can and get plenty of rest.
• Set priorities. Grief is exhausting; you may tire quickly, so save your energy for the most important things.
• Attend a lecture or workshop on how to get through the holidays. Many hospitals and churches will offer these resources at no cost.
• Realize that the anticipation of a holiday or family event may be more difficult than the actual day.
These are only a few suggestions you may find helpful. Another great resource is the American Hospice Foundation; visit their Web site: www.americanhospice.org. You can also reach out to friends, family, and clergy to help you through this difficult time. Know that grief is normal and tears are healthy. When those around you tear up, don’t turn your back—embrace them and show that you care. The holidays, at best, are stressful occasions in our lives. If you find yourself overwhelmed, reach out to friends and family or talk with a professional counselor. Most importantly, engage the holiday, be with friends and family, and remember those you have lost. You might be surprised that this holiday season may be very special to you in many ways. Merry Christmas to you and may you find Peace!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Monday, December 7, 2009
Super Sized Holidays
With Thanksgiving behind us, we start moving into the main stretch of plentiful parties and holiday festivities. Often this rat race called the holiday season leads to an overindulgence of rich comfort foods, cocktails, late nights, and early mornings. All the while we try to fit in one last hurrah in the name of good tidings. This hustle and bustle leaves us feeling bloated, miserable, and woozy as our bodies expand before our eyes. Yet, we eagerly devour one more finger food and gulp down another glass of eggnog.
When I was about nine years old, my mom was preparing food and drink for a Christmas celebration. The party favorite was to be her signature, decadently rich to-the-last-drop, homemade EGGNOG. Now, no party would be complete without a huge bowl of this exquisite treat commanding center stage of the buffet table. After the party preparations were complete, my mom headed off for a well-deserved nap before the guests were to arrive. I bring up the EGGNOG because it was a lesson in overindulgence that I have carried with me throughout every holiday season since. I dipped one small cup into the bowl and as I drank it, my taste buds flew into orbit and my senses were magnified—I wanted more. One cup led to the next, each better than the one before, until I was pouring the last drops of this lavish treat into my cup. I am not sure what happened next. I lay on the sofa tossing and turning as waves of nausea overtook me. I was drenched in sweat as my skin turned gray, my head spinning as I struggled to my feet. I plowed headfirst into the bed where mom lay sleeping; I begged for relief from the demon inside—EGGNOG!
According to the American Dietetic Association, we consumed about 4,000 calories during our Thanksgiving meal. In contrast, it has been estimated that the early Pilgrims and Indians consumed about 550 calories during their first Thanksgiving celebration. So, as we wend our way toward elaborate Christmas meals, we can expect again to consume another 4,000 calories. However, these big holiday meals are only part of the problem. Additional factors that contribute to our expanding waistlines are seasonal hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, candies and other desserts, and lack of sleep.
You don’t have to say “no” to holiday parties, family gatherings, or your favorite hors d’oeuvres. Here are a few tips to help you avoid gaining those unwanted holiday pounds while enjoying the season:
Be realistic: Do not start a weight loss program during the holidays; you may be setting yourself up for failure. A better goal may be to maintain your weight throughout the holidays. Eating smaller, lower calorie meals during the day will allow for a little indulgence at festivities later in the evening without overloading your total daily caloric intake.
Choose healthier foods: Go easy on fried foods, cheeses, dips, and candies. Take advantage of healthier choices, such as raw vegetables (with small amounts of dip—just enough to cover the tip), boiled shrimp, scallops with lemon, or fresh fruit with yogurt dip.
Have fun: Enjoy yourself—conversations are calorie free. Try sparkling water with a twist of lime while you socialize (away from food) and celebrate with old and new friends.
All things in our society, including our appetites, seem to be super sized, making this a great time to pay close attention to portion sizes while including a little exercise (like a brisk walk) in our daily routines. I learned very early in life that you can have too much of a good thing. As for me, I will be steering clear of the EGGNOG!
Make sure to discuss any changes in your daily exercise or diet with your healthcare provider. Have a great holiday season!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
When I was about nine years old, my mom was preparing food and drink for a Christmas celebration. The party favorite was to be her signature, decadently rich to-the-last-drop, homemade EGGNOG. Now, no party would be complete without a huge bowl of this exquisite treat commanding center stage of the buffet table. After the party preparations were complete, my mom headed off for a well-deserved nap before the guests were to arrive. I bring up the EGGNOG because it was a lesson in overindulgence that I have carried with me throughout every holiday season since. I dipped one small cup into the bowl and as I drank it, my taste buds flew into orbit and my senses were magnified—I wanted more. One cup led to the next, each better than the one before, until I was pouring the last drops of this lavish treat into my cup. I am not sure what happened next. I lay on the sofa tossing and turning as waves of nausea overtook me. I was drenched in sweat as my skin turned gray, my head spinning as I struggled to my feet. I plowed headfirst into the bed where mom lay sleeping; I begged for relief from the demon inside—EGGNOG!
According to the American Dietetic Association, we consumed about 4,000 calories during our Thanksgiving meal. In contrast, it has been estimated that the early Pilgrims and Indians consumed about 550 calories during their first Thanksgiving celebration. So, as we wend our way toward elaborate Christmas meals, we can expect again to consume another 4,000 calories. However, these big holiday meals are only part of the problem. Additional factors that contribute to our expanding waistlines are seasonal hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, candies and other desserts, and lack of sleep.
You don’t have to say “no” to holiday parties, family gatherings, or your favorite hors d’oeuvres. Here are a few tips to help you avoid gaining those unwanted holiday pounds while enjoying the season:
Be realistic: Do not start a weight loss program during the holidays; you may be setting yourself up for failure. A better goal may be to maintain your weight throughout the holidays. Eating smaller, lower calorie meals during the day will allow for a little indulgence at festivities later in the evening without overloading your total daily caloric intake.
Choose healthier foods: Go easy on fried foods, cheeses, dips, and candies. Take advantage of healthier choices, such as raw vegetables (with small amounts of dip—just enough to cover the tip), boiled shrimp, scallops with lemon, or fresh fruit with yogurt dip.
Have fun: Enjoy yourself—conversations are calorie free. Try sparkling water with a twist of lime while you socialize (away from food) and celebrate with old and new friends.
All things in our society, including our appetites, seem to be super sized, making this a great time to pay close attention to portion sizes while including a little exercise (like a brisk walk) in our daily routines. I learned very early in life that you can have too much of a good thing. As for me, I will be steering clear of the EGGNOG!
Make sure to discuss any changes in your daily exercise or diet with your healthcare provider. Have a great holiday season!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
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