Monday, October 27, 2008

First Day on the Job...

It felt a bit like field service orientation with Mercy Ships as I started my first day at BIDMC. I couldn't help but be struck by the similarities between Mercy Ships' objective of caring for the poor and the heritage of Beth Israel Deaconess to serve those who had had no access to health care, whether due to discrimination or poverty. The next similarity came when Paul Levy, CEO/President, spoke of being culturally sensitive. Later there was talk of using translators to promote effective communication. Not so different after all!

On the other hand, my commute was longer today that it was on the ship. It took me 25 minutes to walk to work instead of 2.5 to go down a flight of stairs and the length of deck 3. I'm still getting a stair workout since it my office is on the 6th floor. I do have a HUGE porthole...I mean window...in my new office. Dinner means having to actually cook (or heat up leftovers) instead of climbing from deck 3 to deck 5. That's proving to be more of a challenge than I expected. I've gotten lazy!

2 comments:

And she's off! said...

Hello Jean, and welcome back to the States1 What a huge transition you are making! I have been praying for you, and will continue to do so....BIDMC is such an amazing place, and I know you will be such a blessing to them. Can't help but wonder how you will feel when the weather gets REALLY cold. Geesh, do you even have a coat?

Maybe we could meet up for a dinner sometime? I am only 30 mintues away now!

Blessings, ElizaBeth

Jean said...

Hi ElizaBeth,
Yes, I own a winter coat! I lived in England for a few years, remember? Actually, when you only wear a coat for a week or so every few years, they have a long lifespan. I also have boots, gloves, and a hat. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! But that will mean it is time to turn in my Razor scooter and walk to work.