February 11th: International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Nurtured to Nurture: A Reflection by Sister Floria Minj, Unit North India

I have been reflecting recently how every tree that bears good and sweet fruit is not for itself, but it is for others to eat and enjoy. The same way our lives are also meant to benefit others.  The hard work we do is for the betterment of our neighbours; no matter wherever or whatever, small or big, we do this to share our gifts and talents.  Keeping in mind the present needs of our mission in North India and in order to play my role in it effectively, I expressed my wish to pursue an MSc in nursing.  With the support of my community and blessing of our Society leaders, I embarked on my studies through distance online learning because it was not possible to leave my current role to study otherwise. Knowing that it would prove difficult to get through my studies whilst working at the same time, 8 hours shifts on a regular basis, nevertheless, I moved ahead with courage and determination - immersed in the online classes, assignments and other requirements because I love teaching young women who are preparing to help the sick.

Here I found truth in the phrase: “Where there is a will, there is a way!”  The support of my other community members, their prayers, encouragement and understanding were always with me. The Director of Constant Lievens Hospital and Research Centre, Mandar, Rev Father George, and his timely assistance and understanding also helped me to persevere and complete my MSc studies.

Between my studies and first year exam, I was affected badly by the second wave of COVID-19; after 16 days of hospitalisation, treatment and one month’s rest after discharge, slowly I regained my strength and health. Sitting late into night to study or to do assignments and pushing aside all celebrations in order to complete my course requirements led to many sleepless nights, as I struggled to combine unfinished course work and office work by day, which was not at all easy. Overall, the journey to attaining my Master’s Degree in the Science of Nursing was a journey of joy and tears.

Yet, we know that hard work produces good fruit. This I strongly experienced when hearing of my final result; I had passed my final year exams, attaining a first-class degree with distinction. I thank God, my community members, Sisters, our wise Society leaders, well-wishers and friends for helping me in their different ways in my higher education journey which was, I am pleased to say, science-related.

I am grateful to each one who supported me. Now I am fully qualified to fulfil the current needs of my nursing mission. Once again, I send heartfelt thanks; I couldn’t have achieved this result alone.

Many congratulations, Sister Floria!  In your role as a Principal at The Constant Lievens School of Nursing, Mandar, Ranchi, Jharkhand, as seen in the photograph with the school's tutors and students, we wish you every success.