A Little Validation

The stress that has been building in my psyche for the last few weeks is physically present in my body.  Sharing apple cobbler with co-workers at lunch today was a mistake, as that physical manifestation [of stress] tends to primarily make home within my GI tract.  Yet, today I've gotten some mental relief in the form of a little validation.  I assumed that most people would think I'm crazy to be making the changes I am.  (Or that they would at least support/confirm an already present suspicion of craziness, being that I jump out of planes voluntarily and regularly.)  But, I've gotten so many incredibly supportive comments and messages in response to this blog.  I only told people at my job about the career change because going back to school explains the rushed timing of my leaving.  I didn't want the fact that our work is not my passion to take anything away from what we do in our unit, and how important I think it is.  But, now the word is out at work not only of my leaving, but my changing careers.  And I'm getting a lot of respect and admiration from people when I explain why I'm doing what I'm doing.  I didn't quite expect this reaction from people.  It's.. pretty cool.  I'm obviously not making the changes I am for anyone but myself.  But I must admit that the fact that people see it as admirable and gutsy is somewhat calming for me mentally.  It's also solicited some damn complimentary comments from people about me, my personality, and working with me.  Specifics of these comments just validates why I think I'll be a great nurse.