Being a nurse takes a special kind of person. You need to be able to empathize with other people’s needs.

You need to be able to deal with all kinds of situations from minor annoyances to life-threatening emergencies. And, you need to do both of these things for a salary that is, arguably, lower than a person with your level of responsibility should receive.

With all of the pressure that is put on nurses, you would think that they would become desensitized to suffering. After all, they see it every day.

Well, today, I read a story that just about broke my heart. It is not only a fantastic example of a healthcare professional going above and beyond the call of duty – it is an example of the potential for basic human goodness that exists within each of us.

An Empty Fridge and a Full Heart

Amanda Perez is a home nurse. As such, she works with people facing a number of medical conditions. But, like all of us, she has her own life. When she went home each day, she found herself wanting more.

In her own words: “Lately, I have been so upset because I wanted the material things in life – a new car, a house, more clothes and more shoes.”

Then, she had an experience that changed her perspective for the better.

She was at one of her client’s homes when he asked her if she would do him a favor and clean out his fridge. Amanda said that she would be happy to help and set to work.

She opened the door and was shocked to find that it was completely empty!

Heartbroken, she started to cry.

Then, she made a decision…

She drove to a local shop and bought enough food to fill the fridge.

Seriously, try not to cry when you see these pictures!

Picture credit: Amanda Perez (Facebook)

This is More than a Story About Kindness

On the surface, this is a story about kindness. A wonderful person saw someone in need and decided to take matters into her own hands. But, it is so much more than this!

Amanda’s story is a story of gaining perspective and learning to be grateful.

By her own admission, Amanda was feeling sad about all of the things that she didn’t have. It wasn’t until she saw the empty fridge that she realized just how much she already had!

In her own words: “I opened my eyes and realized that I need to stop being so mad about what I don’t have. I need to start appreciating what I do have.”

I love this story! If you do to, please share it with your friends. Amanda deserves the recognition.

Have you ever been the recipient of a random act of kindness? When was the last thing you did something nice for a stranger or acquaintance? Let’s have a chat!