A Practice of Observing

A quiet day is a good day… this is especially true when one works or observes at a hospital. We all know things can change in an instant, either for better or worse. Frederick Memorial Hospital can not only be a lively place, but also be a peaceful setting when there isn’t an emergency at hand.

At Frederick Memorial Hospital there is always movement, always people, always opportunities for observing an unpredictable setting. Upon arriving at the location I was greeted with a calm wind gently flowing across my face. The shallow breeze was almost therapeutic, regardless of its lower temperature. Soothingly, birds call to each other in the distance, in a very melodic way, adding to the calmness of the moment. Crickets can be heard, happily chirping in synchronization in surrounding gardens. Beautifully, the pink and white pedals of the various flowers lightly sway in the air. A slow and soft drone of various cars driving by, including ambulances and police security vehicles, add to the harmony created nature. This serenity fashioned by nature, both contrasts and compliments the hospital’s potentials in both directions.

In contrast to nature’s way of creating tranquility, the only loud noises on this peaceful observation are the people that populate this setting. People of all ages, shapes, and sizes enter and exit the tall red bricked building. Many of them are chatting away on their cellular devices, talking about what the doctor said or what recently happened. Others that work there are returning from break after grabbing a smoke, or getting a bite to eat. Surprisingly, upon this observation I saw very few people with external injuries. Few had casts or occasionally crutches but everybody looked for the most part, healthy. The public intermingles with the environment here almost nonchalantly, but furthermore together.

It’s not often we get to really sit down and enjoy the simplest music there is, nature and the things that interact with it.. Hearing the music within a mundane setting is altogether satisfying. Together these many sights, few smells, and abundant noises cultivate a symphony that one can appreciate upon examination. It’s been said a quiet day at a hospital is a good day, no emergencies to report I’m happy to say.