“Look at every path closely and deliberately, then ask ourselves this crucial question: Does this path have a heart? If it does, then the path is good. If it doesn't, it is of no use.” ~Carlos Castaneda

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Feeling Human again ...

"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children...to leave the world a better place...to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.”
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

As physicians, we treat any number of illnesses, speak to patients about treatment options, and comfort families when bad news is given. Although we are sometimes held to a higher standard, held in high regard, or think very highly of ourselves, we are still only human. Every once and a while one of are own, family, friend or colleges, is struck ill or dies and it reminds us how human we are. We are not gods or immortals, but human.

One of our colleagues was affected this past Christmas eve. I will say a prayer for him and wish his family well. I will hug my children a little longer tonight.


"Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.”

~Horace

4 comments:

make mine trauma said...

Well wishes for you both. We do tend to forget that we are as human as the patients in front of us.

I am about to become a patient and while it is nothing tragic, it is a position I am not used to and never expected to be in.

Chrysalis said...

It is a very vulnerable position to be in, especially when we think we have some control, only to find some things are out of our hands.

I am sorry for your colleague's pain. I will keep him in my prayer's as well. I don't have to know him personally..God knows him.

You are blessed to have your little ones to hold. I wish you many blessings in the coming new year, someonetc.

Midwife with a Knife said...

Good thoughts for both you and your colleague. Sometimes those reminders of humanity can also be a blessing, if they don't come at too high a price.

Anonymous said...

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