An undeserved honor!

Friday, October 8th was a day I never thought would really arrive. I had known for 5 years that the Nyack College School of Nursing was to have my name on it. But as time went by and permits were refused or delayed, I really didn't give it much thought, assuming that it would never really come to pass. When I received word that everything was in place and that the first class had already begun at the college, it still didn't seem real to me. I was asked to be the Founder's Day speaker which was a huge honor and quite scary! When a guy came and pinned a corsage on me, I began to feel like this was really happening. Speaking in front of over 1,000 college students was a challenge but I got good feedback and felt God's enabling. Then I had to rush up to the nursing center to cut the ribbon. I was standing with really important people and realized a bit more what a big deal this was. When I went into the nursing center and saw my name and picture on the wall, that's when it hit me that this was for real. I felt so humbled and unworthy. The attention felt uncomfortable. A beautiful luncheon was held for all the attendees of the dedication. I was presented with a beautiful plaque and asked to give another speech! It was all very overwhelming and now seems like somewhat of a dream. Many of my family members were present for the occasion: my mom & dad, both brothers and wives and kids, daughter & son-in-law, oldest son & girlfriend. It was fun to share the day with them. It is an unbelievable honor to have something named after you while you're alive; you're usually not living to receive such an honor. I certainly know that I am not worthy of this but I also know that most of what we receive from our loving heavenly father is totally undeserved. I just hope that somehow, he will get all the glory and that many young nurses will feel the call of God to go out into this hurting world and be the hands & feet of Jesus in a very tangible way.