I stepped outside today to head to the hospital only to be greated by winter. I don't think the calendar has quite reached winter but the temperature is there. The cold did leave this lovely gift of intricate frost lace. Winter can be beautiful, with a down jacket, of course.

I also wanted to share a powerful experience I had today, having more to do with beauty than with ice. I had the unfortunate responsibility of drawing blood on a little, seven-year-old girl today for an important test. She was so brave and only asked to have her daddy in sight. She put on such a brave face but couldn't fight back the tears when I stuck her with the needle. She never pulled away...not even a little. I found myself saying sorry to her over and over during the procedure.
Afterwards, when all was done, she asked me why I was saying "I'm sorry." I had to think for a moment. I was sorry that she was sick...sorry that I had to cause her pain...sorry that I couldn't fix everything. In the end, she had an understanding and maturity that I will admire forever. Even through the pain, she understood that it was all in an effort to help her. This little girl didn't blame me and wanted to spare me the guilt.
I told her that I was sorry that I had to hurt her. Her simple response was, "You don't need to be sorry."
I never thought I would be taught compassion by a seven-year-old child but I will never forget this lesson.