Closing

In 3 days, I will be done with med school. I will no longer have the word student attached to my description even though I am a life long learner. Somehow, the word student has a naivety feel to it. Sort of offers some security from the real world.

It's been a journey alright. As I look back and reflect on my experiences I really cannot come to any conclusions. I must admit there were pretty low points and some highs as well. I made some close friends who I hope to keep in contact with through-out my career. I tried not to make any enemies, but like in any large group, there will be people whose personalities don't match-up. I feel pretty burnt-out not necessarily from the course work, but from the constant worrying of what the future entails. I chose not to worry (doc's advice).

I learnt a lot from my Parkland patients whom I will forever be grateful. I tried my best to be an advocate for the sick and poor. Some of my attendings were very inspirational, especially the older folks who still know what it means to be a physician. They could have chosen a lucrative career taking care of the "whose who" in dfw but they chose Parkland. They get the word: "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done [it] unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done [it] unto me."

Med school was not a walk in the park. It required a lot of sacrifice from a lot of people. I don't feel like a hero who just survived 4 grueling years. Instead, I am truly humbled. Becoming a doctor isn't just about adding the initials MD to my name. It comes with great responsibility that I will bear to my grave. I pray the Lord to guide me through this new journey I'm about to embark.

Amen.