Words from Gregory Ingram, our Spiritual Care Counselor

I met an old childhood friend a few weeks ago and as we were catching up he was taken aback when I told him what I do for a living. A good conversation ensued where he said he could see me as “some sort of jovial chaplain,” but not as a hospice chaplain and that he was sure surprised that I seemed so happy considering what I do. I good-naturedly told him I thought the same about him and his profession to which he sharply replied, "Yeah sure, everyone loves to make fun of lawyers until they need one." We had a very good laugh at that but then my old friend turned the attention pretty quickly back to me as he wanted to know a number of things about my work, what I actually do, and why I seem so happy to him. I shared with him about hospice and my work with patients in particular. I especially shared about how I view loving and caring for people as my purpose, and that my natural interests in religion, philosophy, and meaning of life questions always drew me to the problem of suffering and wanting to alleviate it in some way.

One of the key points I shared was how my work as a hospice chaplain allows me to engage with patients on a deeply personal and spiritual level. I bear witness to life stories, acknowledging sorrows and tragedies, celebrating joys and special moments, and recognizing the current of love flowing through each life that creates the meaning and purpose that can endure, if not overcome, suffering. We had quite a conversation. At the end of it, I remember thanking my friend for noticing I am “happy” in what I do, and I let him know that it can of course be challenging and frustrating at times, but the privilege of being able to make a difference in someone's life during their most vulnerable moments is for me a profound source of meaning and purpose in my life.

Whether providing emotional support, facilitating heartfelt discussions, praying, or simply being a compassionate presence, each interaction reaffirms my belief in human connection and empathy. My work is not a burden or source of sadness, quite the opposite, it is a profound opportunity to embody love, compassion, and understanding. It's a calling that resonates deeply with who I am and the better person I want to be, and I am grateful every day for the chance to serve others. As a hospice chaplain, I do embody the 'jovial chaplain' my old childhood friend envisioned, thanks to the deep sense of meaning and purpose and ultimately fulfillment I find in my work.