The Caring Document
A Life-Giving Mode of Being as Exemplified by the Prayer of Saint Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
1. Affirms the commitment to be used for the peace and well-being of another.
2. Acknowledges health as peace and harmony within the body, mind, and spirit of the person.
3. Provides nursing care using a holistic perspective.
4. Expresses humility
a. in the recognition of one's strengths.
b. in the recognition of one's areas for improvement.
c. by seeking appropriate assistance.
d. by accepting assistance and constructive criticism graciously.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
1. Accepts the person as a unique being made in the image of God with inherent value and dignity regardless of circumstances as evidenced by respectful verbal and nonverbal interaction.
2. Possesses traits of life-giving behaviors such as compassion, openness, gentleness, kindness and patience.
Where there is injury, pardon;
1. Allows the person to express positive and negative feelings without feeling defensive and while offering understanding and support. Adheres to standards of professional competence while acknowledging the role of the learner. Identifies spiritual needs of forgiveness and reconciliation, understanding and support.
Where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope;
1. Is honest and genuine in interactions.
2. Is calm and confident in interactions with others.
3. Acknowledges the healing power of belief.
Where there is darkness, light;
1. Identifies, accepts and explores one's own feelings.
2. Expresses sensitivity and feeling towards others.
3. Enlightens others on health and wellness issues.
4. Uses values clarification/consciousness and moral inquiry to attain a mature conscience.
Where there is sadness, joy;
1. Acknowledges the healing properties of appropriate humor.
2. Exhibits an appropriate cheerfulness.
3. Is able to laugh at oneself.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
1. Is available and present for others.
2. Accepts expression of others' feelings
3. To be understood as to understand;
4. Demonstrate empathy.
5. For it is in giving that we receive;
6. Ascribes to an altruistic philosophy.
7. Expresses that life is lived in accordance with a value system.
8. Identifies how caring for another can assist in the process of self-actualization.