Page 77 - Nursing: The Philosophy and Science of Caring

fr om caratIve fact or 1 to C a r i t as Pr oC e s s 1
the presenting situation rather than reacting from a place of fear or
anger or resentment.
In this experience, we discover that when we are able to cultivate
this basic practice of Centering, things begin to change around us. So,
as we change the way we are able to empty out, breathe, and release,
we are more present in the moment. Then we affect the way we and
others are able to be and to act. We are more able to alertly “read-the-
field” in the midst of chaos, in the moment.
We can start a simple process and practice of Centering in the
moment by a simple pause, breathing, and emptying out. We learn how
to connect with, learn how to hold that still point, how to hold the
void, that miracle point between the in breath and the out breath. It is
in this space, this void, this still point, this empty space, where some-
thing new can happen in the moment (rather than a closing down or
setting, congealing, and freezing of self and situation).
Finally, when you are ready, come back into your present space,
feeling more open, more gentle, more alert, more peaceful, more
present, more conscious and intentional about your Caritas Being.
Within the practice of Caritas Nursing, which embraces such med-
itative practices of equanimity and loving-kindness toward self and
other, we have advantages in our daily life. Our mindful, caring pres-
ence affects others; it increases our level of energy and creativity for
our work without wasting or dribbling away our life energy–life force;
it helps us observe the work with more clarity and discernment with-
out reacting inappropriately. It helps us to “Be Present.”
One of the first requirements for stepping into a model of caring-
healing and Caritas Consciousness is to be fully present in the moment,
more open and available to self and situation. This simple exercise,
done as a formal practice or as an instant connection to stop and
breathe and let go, is foundational to authentic presence required for
professional practice.

additional exerCise: Cultivation oF
a PraCtiCe oF gratitude and Forgiveness
Another exercise, an extension of the previous basic centering experi-
ence, can lead to deeper growth in one’s authentic practice and prepa-

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