I have been thinking of what to post next-thinking to pull for my dissertation, which, I will do, but...I have been feeling even more introspective for many reasons and not finding content worthy of writing this week. I have been doing a lot of reading lately (as usual really) and this morning, I just read something that really struck me and finally I have something to say. It was a saying from an inspirational person on line that said, "when you think about your dream job, would you do it even if you didn't get paid for it?" Interesting! This brings me to the a conversation I had a couple of weeks ago with someone who was asking me about my daily activities and as I described my work and personal life to her, she gathered that I spend more hours working in free service to others than the paid hours in my office. I laughed when she said that because, I realized it sounded odd and non-sensical. But, to me, the countless hours of support I give to others without a break for almost two decades is something I feel in my soul I am compelled to do-to reach out as a human being to other human beings, rahter than being just another practitioner or doctor that works strictly through office hours. It is something I NEED to do rather than something I feel obligated to do. In my ultimate reality, I would have a non-profit organization that would be available to give free support to everyone in need because that is where my heart is-this is my way of giving that part of myself to others in the way that I can, since I do have to earn a living. So, I give above and beyond in all ways that I can. Is this a "dream job"? MAny people would say not. But, it is something that keeps my dreams positive at night when I sleep-feeling like a did a bunch of things that day that mattered, because I touched a lot of lives in some way that helped ease their suffering that day and I did it without expecting something in return. My reason for posting this is a combination of being prompted by the inspirational post I read this morning and what the person I was discussing all of this with a couple weeks ago said to me-"it would be good for others to understand better how you function in your practice to really understand what you do". So-here it is. I am certain many of you have things in your life that you do that you also do just becuase it fullfills your heart and soul-and you just need to do it. I think what this post I read this morning said is so very true and is a good thing for each of us to pause and think about for a while.
Dr.M
Comments
I think you have a dream job
I think you have a dream job because you are giving us back our dreams in the ability to enter into and enjoy life once again. I am the recipient of your great out-of-the-office care this weekend, and I can't thank you enough. May the Lord bless you that you may continue to help and heal so many more who are suffering. Xxoo
I forgot to say my dream is
I forgot to say my dream is taking care of our little daughter who we adopted from China five years ago along with all my four grandchildren who visit frequently, and with two more babies on the way. A house full of happy children with me cooking for them is my now tangible dream. Priceless to me. :)
That is SUCH an important
That is SUCH an important dream!!!
"Happiness doesn't result
"Happiness doesn't result from what we get, but from what we give.”
― Ben Carson
If this is true, and I believe it is, you must be one of the happiest people on Earth, Matia. You have given so much to me (and others) over the years that I can't even begin to express my gratitude. I understand the joy that helping others can bring, that is why I teach. With your help, I have been able to continue that joy in my own life. Without your love, selflessness and knowledge, I would not have been able to survive and continue in my journey to health and happiness. Thank you for all you and Boaz do.
I love that quote! And thank
I love that quote! And thank you so much for those kind and beautiful words. I just wanted to say-I wanted to share my thoughts about how I felt about my work-hoping others might share their feelings about their passions too! I am sure I am only one tiny spec on the map of people doing things that bring them joy and that they do just because they love to do it. I know with you Peggy one thing is how you shine through with your children and grandchildren and they have given you back so much of what you have given of yourself. You are one of the luckiest mothers and grandmothers I know!
M
Matia, I am so grateful that
Matia, I am so grateful that you are doing your dream job :) You go above and beyond what any doctor has ever done for me or any doctor has done for anyone else I know and I appreictae it so much. I love what Mrs. A said about you giving us back our dreams, I agree with that completely. I've been doing my dream job for over 8 years unpaid until recently, and I would do it forever without pay, if I was a millionaire I would still write everyday- I even wrote on Christmas day last year, it's something I just have to do. After a full day of creating stories and losing myself in another world I feel so happy inside. I think it's a big part of what has kept me strong during the past 5 years where I've not been as able to leave the house much and have had so much discomfort, it's been a good distraction.
C
These are lovely positive
These are lovely positive posts! It has made me reflect on my daily activities... I realised that I get to experience fulfilment in both the work I do to earn a living and the voluntary work I do. The only downside is that things can get (too) busy! The work I do to earn a living is working with children who have autism spectrum disorders, at my small farm, using animal assisted therapy. There are many moments where I see 'this works!' And it is fulfilling, and great to be a part of. I have been wanting to write about this for the inspiration connection section of this website.
But my real passion is with the voluntary work I do. I spend a few hours each week going door to door and studying the bible with people. To be able to use the bible to show someone God's name, practical advice for family life, or answers to deeper things like 'what happens when you die' is the most fulfilling thing I can do. Lately I have been telling as many people as possible about www.jw.org wanted to put it here in case it can help someone!
Thanks for your post Dr. B! Good to reflect!
And I like many of your
And I like many of your patients am so blessed to have found a Doctor like you. I literally prayed for someone to help me like you and I got it. You are an answer to my prayers. I am grateful for people like you who fulfill their calling in life. Thank you so much for helping us heal our bodies. And thank you for writing your blog. I learn stuff everyday and love reading all your posts.
Dr. M, I can't thank you
Dr. M, I can't thank you enough for all the time you dedicate to each of us. So blessed to have such a caring and compassionate Dr. to help guide so many through such turmoil. You have given me the strength to keep going when I couldn't imagine I could. It is so easy to lose sight of my dreams when everything I touch seems to crumble. Because of you I am learning to take each day as it comes and try to see the positives in each situation. I know everything happens for a reason, even when we cannot understand. I am so grateful for everything you do to help keep me grounded and know life will go on whether it was what I wanted or expected. I don't really know where I belong or what my future holds, but trying to take each day as it comes. Hopefully, I will find my way eventually. Words cannot express my gratitude for you finding your way to your calling and dream job!
CPrince, you see it as
CPrince, you see it as everything crumbles. I see you as one of the most courageous women I have ever met!!!! Love all these inspiring stories. I'm not sure exactly what I have given back. I pray for all that I know are hurting and try to be an encourager. So many wonderful examples on here from you all. Dr. M. you and Boaz are beyond words to me. Your deep care and devotion to us all. This has been a trying year as I have watched my mothers health failing. Changing her diapers and caring for her needs until we had to put her in an assisted living home. If not for this past year of my treatment I would not have had the health to do this. Instead of a burden it has enriched my life and relationship with mom beyond my greatest expectations. It has been such a blessing. Thank you.
Patty you are so sweet, thank
Patty you are so sweet, thank you! We are all going through so much. Yesterday was a huge example for me that I need to keep the faith that things are truly happening for a reason, a better opportunity is always around the corner. You are correct things aren't crumbling, like I told Dr. M the other day, life is an adventure, I'm on the scenic route, with many road blocks and detoures, but eventually I will arrive at my final destination. I am feeling blessed to have the ability to continue a profession that is so rewarding, to help others regain their independence and learn how to return to activities that bring joy to their life, while I am on a similar path. I love all these posts, so positive and uplifting!
I want to tahnk each of you
I want to tahnk each of you for all these great posts! I LOVE having the positive input and energy on the site. I believe that puttting th positive around us really does help.Thank you for sharing all of the beautiful words! I am inspired by each of you I interact with, and I can speak for Boaz that he feels the same. Interacting in this way truly enriches all of our lives including ours!
Also, I want to say here because I cannot elasewhere, I have been preoccupied all day with not being able to post a new blog. I cannot get into the system there for some strange reason. Sot, I just wanted to say that in case it takes a couple of days to get sorted out.
I have a job like that. I
I have a job like that. I work in Music, Theater and Dance. My husband also has more of a "vocation" than a job- he is a teacher. He spends hours "extra" every single day but he loves his work. However, sometimes it can be hard for people to understand that even though one may be devoted and selfless in their job, they deserve to be paid a decent amount for it! I do sometimes volunteer and I definitely do not go into this business so I could be rich but it is hard for our culture to understand that people should be paid for their work even if they love it!! Also, having said that, there are days when even my husband or i feel like quitting. Anything that is worth while and on a deep level seems to require more than is possible on occasion. Thanks Dr M.