Idealism

“You are too idealistic”

Am I?

Perhaps.

This is not an ideal world, hence, I think it takes people with crazy idealism to fuel them to do what they passionately believe in. There is nothing wrong with being idealistic. Running the whole race, that is the challenge.

As much as people think otherwise, I do not romanticize working in a third world country.
I have been fortunate to be given the opportunity to experience the gritty realities of healthcare amidst poverty so early in my course.
I am hungry for more.

Poverty is not romantic.
Suffering is not romantic.
The harsh realities of third world aid will hit you hard if you go there hoping to come back with exploitative photographs of the locals to show off to friends, so they can laud you for being a such compassionate adventurer.

I know what I believe in.

I believe that people should not have to suffer because of circumstance.
I believe doctors are people that should heal the sick without expecting fame or thanks.
I believe in the equality of healthcare.
I believe in the empowerment of women in a third world setting.
I believe in doing things quietly and with humility.

One day, I will achieve all that I believe in.
I owe it to myself and to my parents and loved ones who believed in me when no one else did.

For now, I can only work as hard as I can and draw strength and inspiration from the right sources.

Triage: Dr James Orbinksi’s Humanitarian Dilemma

It is not an ideal world

Is life only about personal gratification and enjoyment?

When was the last time you gave back to your community?

March 4, 2010. Med School, Think, Thunk, Thought.