Saturday, July 07, 2007
After my first day in the wards, the whole time I was thinking to myself
Finally, Im in the wards-the place where you really get hands-on and do things that count-that makes a difference. This is why Im here- in medicine.'
And Im gonna do a pretty darn good job at it, even if it means looking fugly with eye bags and bed-head hair.
I went around, happily smiling and hopping joyfully, immersing myself in deeply-contented satisfaction. I loved being in the wards. I love everything about medicine, I said.
My friends and I shared the same opinions. And that bubble of happiness spread around like rapid fire.
Then... onto sharing that infectious joy to my seniors- *da dum*
Cynical, I'd say. Poured water over my newly-lighted flame, I retorted. I was told, they were exactly as enthusiastic and passionate as we are now, but, not anymore. Why?
You'll get used to it. You'll get so worked up. So bogged down by the rush, the work, the lifestyle.
I didn't let that put away my still furiously burning fire. Because I was too happy.
I know why they said that though. They wanted to make sure I didnt leave with a superfluous impression of what's in store for me, when the real work starts- and the real world comes in.I spoke to my resident as well for assurance, but he too, acknowledged that fact, that the euphoria dies down, especially when you get down to the nitty-gritty hard work and slave over sleepless nights being on-call and doing rounds.
I looked down and I realised how hard these people are working and how much they want me to see, that its very very hard work and that it is so important that I know it beforehand and expect it. I understand that and appreciate it a lot, even though sometimes I think they might have overdone their pessimistic selves a wee bit. ;)
And, I have already known this fact- since the day I aimed for medicine, I knew it wouldnt be a smooth-sailing road. As rocky as it is, I believe:"Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive."