The Greatest of These Is Love

The Greatest of These Is Love

Roberta L. Messner, RN

Though I articulate the contemporary jargon of nursing,
If I have not understanding that touches the heartbeat of my patients,
I only generate chatter.
Though I boast of diplomas, awards and publications, and my skills reflect the wonderment of technology,
If I have not mastered the gift of compassion,
My endeavors are hollow.
Though I impress my colleagues with my intellectual prowess and lofty idealism,
If I offer not the instrument of self,
I serve my patients with mere activity.
Though I devote my very life to the profession of nursing and forfeit personal desires,
If I become cynical, detached and fatigued to the point of indifference,
My energy is expended in futility.
Though I integrate the art and science of nursing, translate research into clinical practice, and achieve professional notoriety,
If I do not notice wounded hearts and broken dreams,
My mission is not fulfilled.
I may be competent, dependable, efficient, but if I fail to communicate the language of love,
I practice nursing in vain.
Faith, hope and love—these are all craving of the human spirit—but the greatest of these is love.