Reflection on Eye Clinic - Humility
Apr 12th, 2007 by Jenny Posted in Bluefields 2007 | No Comments
March 12, 2007 Monday, was the first day of the Eye Clinic. Ian and I were assigned to the adjustment table of the eye clinic. Laura, our eye clinic leader was too busy out there helping the 2 examiners, so we were left on our own to learn on the job.
Before we adjusted anything, we would put the pair of eyeglasses on our patient and ask if it felt comfortable. Interestingly, they all would say “it’s great”. But as I examined it closer, I would notice that the arms of the glasses would usually be either too tight or too loose. However, rarely would any of our patient complain. As we tried to adjust the frame for them to fit better, they would agree that it fit even better. Unlike a typical North American who would complain first, the Nicaraguan people were always humble and appreciative of what we did for them.
It was humbling for me especially when dealing with Alex who had an accident which caused him to have very poor vision with one eye. I had great trouble adjusting this pair of monster big sunglasses to fit him. Whatever I tried, it just would not fit level but rather lopsided on his face. I felt quite helpless as I spent more than 15 minutes trying to figure out how to fix it.
The thought that went through my mind as I was anxiously trying to resolve this problem was “I can’t believe I am so incompetent!”. I have always thought myself to be a smart gal who could learn anything and everything. But not this time…
I knew I was not an expert, but Alex was extremely gracious and patient with me. He kept telling me to take my time. But all the while I was thinking that I wouldn’t stand myself if I were him waiting for the sunglasses! From a North American culture and perspective, if I were him, I would have started screaming from the top of my lungs to complain and demand if the adjuster knew what he/she was doing.
There is so much for us to learn about patience, grace, faith and humility from the Nicaraguan people.
Technorati Tags: Eye Clinic, eyeglasses, Nicaragua
