I have a lot to be thankful for and would like to take
some time on this beautiful fall day to remember that. I have a place to live and food to eat. I can meet my basic needs and also the
higher-order needs that we have as humans: for self-expression, community, and
meaning in life.
I am thankful for fulfilling work. Yes, medicine is hard. But it’s an honor to take care of people, to
listen to their stories, to learn something new every day, and to work with
amazing colleagues from so many different disciplines. In academic medicine, I also get to teach new
doctors the art and science of this vocation and add new knowledge through
research.
I am thankful for my family and the love and support we
share for each other. Thankful to be
adding a new baby to the mix soon. And
thankful that this pregnancy has been uncomplicated so far, at least in
physical terms. Juggling personal and
professional lives is a complication of its own, which will only become more
challenging. We all have to figure out
how these two realms can be complementary, rather than in conflict. I am glad that Baby will have the role models
of a working mother and a dad who excels at the manly duties of childcare.
I hope that you also have a lot to be thankful for
today. I know I tend to forge ahead
without always pausing for reflection.
It is good to be reminded not to take things for granted.
