For Better, For Worse
Nurse got his life on track through example of wife

By Robert Nishida

Ann and Robert Nishida

Then, about five years ago, we met again at a hospital, of all places. She was working there and I was working for the lab that had its headquarters there. This time she remembered me, and we got to talking. Soon we were dating, and I felt like my life was just beginning.

Before this, I had no direction or career path. I had jobs, but the work was never meaningful, so I wasn't inspired to take it to the next level.

She changed all of that: First, by her example of working at a public-relations job she enjoyed, she inspired me to search for that kind of satisfaction and spirit in a career for myself; and second, she was an expensive date, and so if I didn't find a better job, I'd never be able to marry her and provide her with the things in life she wanted and deserved.

With her encouragement and support, I did some soul-searching and volunteer work, and eventually went back to school to earn a nursing degree.

Now I've got a career in health care, working as a registered nurse at a local hospital. The work can be difficult, stressful and exhausting, but it's also really satisfying, something I've never felt at a job before. I learn new things every day and really enjoy working with the physicians and nurses, and interacting with patients.

She also helped improve my eating habits and broaden my list of travel experiences. When we first met, I'd been a fast-food kind of person, eating at one of the fast-food chains at least once a day. Now I can count the number of times I've eaten at McDonald's lately on one hand.

Ann likes to travel and wanted to see the world, while I'd been content with occasional trips to the Mainland. Within the last few years, we have traveled to many faraway places, including four European countries, and have plans to see more of the world together soon.

If Ann hadn't come into my life again, I'm not sure where I'd be today, but I know this for sure: I wouldn't be nearly this happy.

At our wedding at the Halekulani (where I also had proposed) almost three years ago, I thanked her parents for having her, because she truly is the best part of my life. She has changed it for the better, and she's the love of my life. I hope she truly realizes the difference she has made in my life.

The Nishidas live in 'Aiea.

For Better, For Worse is a periodic column written by readers, with their stories and advice on weddings and marriage. Write: For Better, For Worse, 'Ohana Section, The Honolulu Advertiser, P.O. Box 3110, Honolulu, HI 96802; e-mail ohana@honoluluadvertiser.com or fax 535-8170. Articles and photos submitted to The Advertiser may be published or distributed in print, electronic or other forms.