Gratitude in Medicine

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I appreciate the opportunity to reflect on life's richest gifts - love, service, and finding light amidst darkness. Writing this piece was an act of gratitude for the remarkable teachers and experiences that have shaped my path as a physician and human being. The patients who've allowed me to walk with them through illness and loss have shown incredible courage, dignity, and warmth of spirit. During difficult nights on call, holding space for someone's transition, I've witnessed the human capacity to face death with grace, even peace. These patients gave me a generous gift - the chance to comfort, accompany, and learn as their physician. I'm also thankful for the gifts of knowledge and skills I've accumulated through teachers, mentors, and training to become a doctor. But it's taken time to embrace these talents fully. Insecurity, burnout, and feelings of helplessness, when the prognosis is poor can obscure the gifts we've been given. I've learned not to let those passing clouds block the sun. Hard times will come, but with openness and self-compassion, we can recalibrate - and rediscover the gifts within us. Music, nature, and beloved friends help me find that reset button. And I renew my sense of purpose in even small acts of compassion - a reassuring touch, listening fully, uplifting a discouraged nurse with kind words. I wrote this piece as a reminder to keep shining light into the world, even on the stormiest days. Never forget the gifts we've received and share them abundantly with all beings. Our lives intertwine; we travel together. May we walk into the unknown with brave hearts, heads held high.

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