Mackenzie Snortum, PMHNP

Chapter 2: The Birth of Driftwood Enlightenment

Chapter 3: The Bittersweet Farewell

The seeds of Driftwood Enlightenment were sown during one of the last family vacations to Nicaragua, a place brimming with the warmth of the sun and the embrace of the ocean waves. It was a trip shared with my dear Dad and, unknown to us at the time, my brother Jacob’s last family vacation.

As I walked along the beach, my gaze fell upon the driftwood scattered along the shore. Each piece had its own unique journey, marked by different colors, shapes, and textures. I brought back a piece of that driftwood as a tangible reminder of that moment. It found its place in my home, and as I pass by it every day, I hear the soothing melody of ocean waves, and I can almost visualize the wood sinking into the sand as the water washes away some particles back to the sea.

Driftwood Enlightenment began to take shape during that magical trip. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had a fire burning inside me, a passion that yearned to be unleashed. The inspiration was further fueled by my father, who, despite battling terminal brain cancer, journeyed through his illness with grace, dignity, and unwavering faith. Though we never spoke explicitly about it, I could sense that he believed there was something bigger in store for me. He always said I’d kept him on his toes.

On January 25th, 2021, my father left the physical world and entered heaven, as he had wished, surrounded by his family and friends in our family home. His dear friend drove all the way from Nebraska, urging him to hang on until he arrived. In true Duane fashion, he took his last breath within minutes of his friend’s arrival.

Death, as I’ve learned through my years as a hospice nurse, can be raw and painful. Yet, it can also be achingly beautiful. If you’ve ever lost someone who knew they were dying and chose to be open, honest, and vulnerable with you, you understand the profound impact it can have on your heart. My dad gave his loved ones the gift of grieving with him while he was still with us. We cried, we laughed, we talked about the future, and how we would remember him. It was the most precious gift he could give us, his grandchildren, his wife, his friends, and his children.

After my father’s passing, my life changed in profound ways. I listened to the whispers of my soul and followed my calling. I took the boldest step of my life: I quit my corporate job. Driven by pure passion and pure fear, I embarked on a new journey. It’s been over two years since that pivotal decision.

There have been countless sleepless nights, tears, and moments of doubt. But through it all, there have been even more smiles and victories. I’ve learned that loving what you do for work is essential for your mind, body, and soul.