While reviewing Hayden's contribution to this column, I was reminded of how quickly things change. In an instant people's worlds may be changed in a variety of different ways. Trying to hold on to what one has, yet being pulled in a difficult, painful way, cocreates unsureness of what will come next, knowing much will change. With the disaster of hurricane Katrina much was lost. Devastating loss came for many. Opportunities came for others. All the while hope was rising anew. I am most struck by the eagerness of the nursing students to step in and live in the moment, hoping their presence with the evacuees would make a difference, knowing even though ambivalent, caring for others during the disaster may be life-changing. So too, the responsiveness of the faculty to quickly prepare and guide these students was innovative, instead of allowing the restraints of academia to prohibit action.
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