I am a nurse. One of those who protested loudly before Corona against the austerity measures, the daily workload and all the other grievances that became increasingly drastic in our profession. I talked to the press, signed petitions, and wrote angry letters to the Ministry of Health. As I said … BEFORE Corona.
But now, in these times, I have become calm. I ignore all my colleagues' angry Facebook posts, I don't sign the demand for an immediate raise, and I don't wallow in the feeling that "those up there" are going to be amazed. I think there are times when you should fight for yourself and your own professional group. And then there are times like this when we should just do our best for a higher purpose. Yes, we may do our best a little more "at the front" than some other professional groups. But that is precisely why we – if you ask me – cannot use any side war zones.
A weakened army
It is true that we are a weakened army in the fight against Corona. And yes, we owe that to an austerity policy that was irresponsible. But now we have to fight the battle. Not for the politicians, but for every grandma, every grandpa, every sister, every brother, every partner out there, and for everyone else whom Corona can be a danger to. There are many, including many, who do not yet suspect it, probably also one or two of us. Call me stupid or submissive … I call myself pragmatic. Because I think the media work for us on their own, while we work for people. In these times we don't have to boast, we don't complain, we don't ask for anything. Nobody will be able to avoid cleaning up the health system after Corona. And then I will again be in the front row like a lioness and I will do everything I can to create a work environment in which we can finally do our job the way it should be. With time for a few words of comfort, with a vacation where you won't be blown back and with a salary that is appropriate for the effort. We can see that the first steps in this direction are being taken. I also think it's bad that this had to happen to shake up the powerful. But I'm certainly not wasting my energy with anger over my salary. What I am currently demanding are: smart decisions in the crisis and (very important !!!) finally safe protective clothing for us and the doctors.
Let’s stay calm
When I see phrases like "we don't need applause, we need more money" on social media these days, I'm ashamed. The people who applaud us have never decided on our salaries and working conditions. It is people who express their solidarity to us. To reject this solidarity, I forgive myself, is stillless. So, to everyone out there who applauds, put us sweeping packages in front of the door or offers to take our dogs … THANKS! I am certain that the majority of us appreciate this very much. And to all my colleagues who express their anger publicly: Yes, you are right, there are so many reasons to be angry. But I think there are more reasons now to postpone this anger later and to see society's recognition as something positive. We now need all the good vibes we can get to master this. After that I'm back in the revolt, I promise !!! Now let's be there for the others … I'm sure the others will still be behind us after Corona!