Paging Doctor Doctor

I've decided that there is nothing more jubilant than watching medical doctors receive their medical degrees at medical school commencement. We were fortunate to attend the graduation of a dear friend's daughter. A quick jaunt out east provided opportunity to be part of the momentous occasion.

The sheer joy oozing out of every new doctor's very being was fueled with profound relief, immense gratitude, appropriate pride and a true sense of accomplishment. A sense of survival and an overwhelming amount of giddiness were also part of the festivities.

I assume a wee bit of terror--as related to student loan debt and knowing the real challenge now begins--was hidden under their doctoral robes but that was not visible or palpable.

The graduation speakers, doctors who serve as professors, were well-spoken, humorous, candid and just right for the festive event. There was a sense of decorum, appropriate pride and a bit of Latin, but the tone was definitely celebratory in nature. A lot of mighty smart brains filled the church--I think my I.Q. went up ten points just sitting in the crowd.

One hundred twenty-nine students received their medical degree at this celebration, with each one receiving a rousing round of applause upon receipt of the degree, all beaming the brightest of smiles. I've never seen so many authentic smiles in my entire life (and that's saying something, seeing as I was an orthodontic assistant for five years).

If you've never been to a medical school graduation, put it on your bucket list. The wife has been to 70 or so commencements and she agreed that this was one of the top graduations she's attended/taken part in. That says a lot--besides experience from all views (graduate, teacher, professor, family member), the wife is a tough character who knows a thing or two about such ceremonies. Oh, I'm sure there are many graduations with "bigger names" (read: Oprah as your commencement speaker), bigger classes or better what-not, but I'd be hard-pressed to find one that was this joyous.

This is illustration of what it looks like to be a medical doctor: fancy puffy hat, awesome hood, three-striped robe, diploma suitable for framing, and....

....a great big smile.

I found myself  thinking about how young all these new medical doctors looked....  They look young because they ARE young. Full of life, full of knowledge but not full of years on the planet. I'm sure they don't feel that way, but trust your elders, new doctors. You are really young. Be kind to us when we come to you for your expertise. Hang on to your bedside manner when we cross paths.

Long days are ahead.
Residency is not for the faint of heart.
The pay does not automatically start rolling in but the loans start demanding payment.
But, long days are also behind you.
Residency will bring opportunity and growth.
The pay will eventually show up in your account.
The successes will definitely outweigh challenged.
Your tribe will remain with you, support you, cheer you on.

Keep the joy of this day ever in your heart, soul, brain and you'll be just fine.

Congratulations, new doctor! It has been an honor to be a tiny part of your momentous journey. May your prescription pad, common sense and love of life never fail you.