Hello

Just a note.  I'm actually going to attempt a short entry.  It's been a long time since I've written on here.  I check into other people's entries regularly.  Haven't really looked at the message board for a long time.
I have started a program to be a chaplain in a hospital.  I have one more day of orientation and I start my clinic hours on Tuesday.  It will be about 14 hours a week over 3 days and I hope to manage my health along the way.
I have been feeling better for about 6 months now and even though some days are harder than others I have been getting along quite well.  Especially, compared to the past.
Of course, I have those nasty thoughts in my head that tell me I'm not going to be able to do this and wondering how I think I'm going to be able to manage in the dark of the winter.  I have been pushing away those thoughts and focusing on believing in hope and possibility.
It will be 12 years ago next month that I got sick and didn't get any better.  I think all of these years of being sick have given me a certain insight into pain and affliction.  The work will be for spiritual care and not for any particular religious denomination.  I have developed compassion and understanding because of what I have been through.
I'm not sure I'm fully prepared for what I am about to be a part of but I am willing to learn and try to give comfort when I can.