It can be really easy to judge a book by its cover, as this nurse can attest. She was on the receiving end of such judgment, after all, but she took the high road in this scenario.
Nurse Mary Penney couldn’t wait to get home after doing her chores at the end of her shift. She was waiting for her groceries to be rung up, when the cashier noticed her name tag and asked about some of the responsibilities of her profession. When Penney explained she was a nurse, the cashier became rather critical and made some unhelpful comments about her colored hair, piercings, and tattoos. It didn’t help that the cashier even invited another lady to comment on Penny’s appearance.
For the record, here’s what Penney looks like out of uniform.
It is true that older generations have a tendency to frown upon tattoos, colored hair, and piercings, as they are used to stricter dress codes and professional attire. However, present times are beginning to have a more relaxed attitude towards these forms of self-expression, as these do not hamper one’s job environment and social responsibilities.
It is unsure if Penney replied to these two ladies, but she has certainly penned an elegant response to this on Facebook.
She writes:
Well, here’s my thoughts. I can’t recall a time that my hair color has prevented me from providing life saving treatment to one of my patients. My tattoos have never kept them from holding my hand and as they lay frightened and crying because Alzheimer’s has stolen their mind. My multiple ear piercings have never interfered with me hearing them reminisce about their better days or listening to them as they express their last wishes. My tongue piercing has never kept me from speaking words of encouragement to a newly diagnosed patient or from comforting a family that is grieving.
So, please explain to me how my appearance, while being paired with my cheerful disposition, servant’s heart, and smiling face, has made me unfit to provide nursing care and unable to do my job!
According to a study, it has been confirmed that women with more body tattoos usually have higher self-esteem, as these often become badges of courage and memorial for accomplishments and survival in their lives.
We salute you, Nurse Penney!
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