GRATITUDE

©️Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker

I love sitting around in the surgical lounge for a bit after the surgery is over. It is usually here that we end up meeting our colleagues and have some light banter. We talk about this and that and then get on with our day.

This morning, in one of the hospitals I visit, I met the hospital owner in the OT lounge. My anesthetist friend and I, complimented him for creating a superb facility and delivering high quality healthcare to people in that part of the city. To our surprise, he was taken aback totally and said that most people only call him up to complain and raise issues, rarely does he receive compliments. This set me thinking.

It has been 25 years since I entered the field of medicine. In these 25 years, I have collected immense amount of career capital and achieved many professional milestones. But that is not all. More importantly I have made hundreds of friends and forged many beautiful relationships. Some are conventional and some very unconventional.

For instance, the friendly watchman outside one of the hospitals, who always greets me with a great smile. (And primes me about how many patients are waiting already)

A kind driver of another consultant who helps me park my car for last so many years! (Reflects on my parking skills too ?)

The mausi who ensures to serve my coffee without sugar. (Just the way I like it)

The wardboy who volunteers to do the daily dressing of my patient with a chronic wound and doesn’t give up until it heals. (Loved to see the glint of happiness in his eyes when the wound healed)

The nurse who continues to care for others even after tragedy struck her own family. (I wish I can be as strong as her)

The boy in the hospital canteen who serves me food everyday. (Given his way, I would put on 2 kgs every month)

The manager who always hears me out patiently everytime I call to complain about a million issues. (His patience is enviable)

The fellow surgeons who always support when stress comes calling. (No questions asked, no judgement ever)

The list is endless. But there is a special connection with each of them. We share a common universe, a common purpose, we are there for each other and whether we know it or not, we rely on each other in many ways. Every morning when I walk into the hospital, I feel reassured to see familiar faces. We have our differences at times, but these bonds are unbreakable. We share our lives together.

On the face of it, it may appear that the world is turning more and more bitter, but if we look around us, in our immediate universe we will find a lot of sweetness in small things and kind gestures. It’s high time we appreciate our blessings and express our gratitude.

It’s time to say “thank you” to every one of these special people for being a part of my life and making me who I am.

©️Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker