Journal of Sacred Work

Erie “Chip” Chapman

  • First Day-Last Day: More From Alumni Hit Parade

    Memory sees so many as they looked back then at Toledo Riverside, Riverside Methodist, and Nashville Baptist Hospital. But I remember the loving presence of each today. That remains the same! Continue reading

  • At the Core of Your Being

    The summer after college graduation found me nestled back in Vermont, visiting family and friends. Soon I would begin my nursing career in California. It was a vibrant time of both anticipation and joy, especially with my best friend Susan’s… Continue reading

  • I’m So Glad We Had That Time Together

    After the wounded are healed, the ill vomit, the mom delivers, someone has to clean up, ensure the electricity works and staff cared for. Thank you caregivers for SHOWING UP. I’m so glad we had that time together.  Continue reading

  • “I Wish I Could Trade Places With You”

    I was 22 and had just graduated college and earned my RN degree from Golden West Community College. I had my heart set on working at St. Joseph Hospital because of their reputation for excellence, high quality of care and… Continue reading

  • “The Magnetic Flood of Sympathy and Friendship”

    The requirement of professional distance for caregivers creates pitfalls. Too much distance seals off humanity. Falling too deeply into patient’s troubles can exhaust caregivers. Most of my fellow former caregivers at Baptist Hospital, Riverside Methodist, and Riverside Toledo found the… Continue reading

  • Just One Act of Kindness

    All caregivers begin their caring “career” with just one kind act of caring for someone in need. This sole act then becomes multiplied over a lifetime of being a committed caregiver and God blesses both the caregiver and the persons… Continue reading

  • Abundance (of memories)

     Hymns are sacred. So is your caregiving career of easing other’s suffering. Abundant thanks to you for choosing to serve. Continue reading

  • Garden of My Heart

    Summer solstice is here with the sun setting at 7:42 PST. The longer days beckon us outdoors to enjoy the beauty the natural world offers us. Recently retired, I find myself drawn to my neglected backyard to trim the overgrown… Continue reading

  • Those little geniuses – again – And an invitation to you

    What are 3 and 4 year olds teaching US with how they answer our questions. What happens when we give them MORE credit for their insights and challenge them more? Continue reading

  • Have I Told You?

    Here it is Father’s Day week-end and I am remembering how my parents were of a generation that did not openly express love. I do not recall we ever said “I love you” right out loud. I could write “Love… Continue reading