Bridging the Divides

In this climate of division, improving health and well-being is a goal we can all agree on.

by Elizabeth G. Nabel, MD

The Rhonda S. Zinner Bridge (Photo by Len Rubenstein)

We all have an opportunity to be healers in our own realm, in our own right, right now.

In challenging times, I think of healing as a path to unity. Even in this climate of division, improving human health and well-being—in body and mind—is a goal we can all agree on. Our dreams for a healthier world can be the starting ground to move forward.

We will continue to be tested by events in the world around us. When chaos feels overwhelming, we must redouble our efforts to do good, inspire hope, and offer as much help as we can when others need it most. It is important to remember we all have an opportunity to be healers in our own realm, in our own right, right now.

Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, once said, “Live your life while you have it. Life is a splendid gift. There is nothing small in it…but to live your life, you must discipline it.” This is what our moral compass is for—to guide us ethically in our decisions and in how we conduct ourselves every day.

I have the privilege of leading an organization guided by its moral compass. In the Brigham Health community, we live our values each day. We strive to be a safe place for all who come through our doors. We welcome people of all walks of life, in every moment of life. We hold their hands through it all—and in that small act, we build a bridge to help bear all of the pains and joys of being human.

Betsy Signature
Betsy Nabel, MD

President
Brigham Health