A Pledge: Setting a Course Toward Making a Difference in EMS

Have you ever made a pledge? As a school teacher, I made a pledge each morning when I said the Pledge of Allegiance with each class. There are other pledges I have made. A pledge to pay my mortgage, a pledge to be faithful to my wife, a pledge to defend my country when I was sworn into the Navy, and a pledge to a friend to pray for him as he fought an illness. No doubt, you have made similar pledges throughout your life. In fact, so many pledges seem to water down our thoughts about the seriousness of our pledges. Each of my classes over the years has stood at attention outside in ranks, saluted the flag of the United States flying over our training tower and recited the Pledge of Allegiance. During one of these times, which we refer to as “colors,” I began to wonder whether an additional pledge should be used: a pledge for the conduct and professionalism as an emergency responder. Not just a person who’s good in their job, but also good in their community, good in their friendships, good in their family and, most importantly, good in their own skin. I developed this pledge to help nurture the growth of my students. This essay explains my thoughts and rationale. I pledge allegiance to myself and who I want to become. And to my class and my profession for which they stand. My role; to learn and encourage, To protect the community, And to secure hope in eyes that see me. I Pledge Allegiance to Myself It starts here with a pledge. Regardless of our age,...
Source: JEMS Administration and Leadership - Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Tags: Exclusive Articles Administration and Leadership Source Type: news