January 2, 2005 - Last (or is it "First") Chapter

It has been a year since “A” and I went our separate ways. Looking back to when I started this travel, I’m not sure if I was running away or running towards something. The one certainty was that there was much “unknown” in my life.

I’ve touched many corners of the World over the last six months and many individuals have touched my life. It is quite amazing how that can happen, despite having no common language or even background. There has been much kindness shown to me and I hope that I have done an adequate job in returning the favor.

Tomorrow is the start of a new chapter in my life. I start my career as a Pediatric Rehabilitation physician. I’ve been training with this goal for the past decade, since finishing college. The past two years have been dedicated to learning my trade as a Pediatric Rehabilitation fellow. The difference now is that the safety net is gone. I’ve got no more mentors to supervise and keep me from stepping off the wrong ledge. The problem in my profession is that if I step off that ledge, I take unsuspecting people with me. To be quite honest, I’m scared. The past six months have expanded my mind in so many ways. The World is a little less mysterious now. But, it has done very little to prepare me for tomorrow’s adventure.

But what have I taken away from these experiences? I’ve learned that there is a very large difference between “want” and “need”. I’ve seen such severe poverty. But, I’ve also learned that poverty and happiness are not mutually exclusive, just as wealth does not always bring happiness. I’ve seen natural beauty that has been destroyed by our footsteps as well as desolate places made beautiful through the strength of communities. There have been no hard and fast rules.

Now that I am home, am I in the same or a different place? There is no doubt in my mind that I am in a different place. The question is whether or not that place is better. I’ve been fortunate to have made many new friendships, but have damaged some dear ones along the way. I’ve learned so much but have let much knowledge (such as medical information) slip back into some recesses of my mind. I’ve discovered new goals for the future but have let some dreams go.

The first obvious change tomorrow morning will be the different “costume” that I will be wearing. It has been a long time since I have worn a tie and uncomfortable shoes.

I am thankful that I have had the opportunity to wander a bit outside of my usual neighborhood. But, I am even more thankful for the family and friends who have welcomed me home. I hope I will deserve to have them with me as I continue on this journey.