Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald: Giving thanks

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Giving thanks

Thanksgiving has recently been upon us, and with it comes football, family, and feasting. Veterinarians, of all people, should give pause for a moment to take stock of their good fortune and count their blessings. We really do have a charmed profession. Many people would give their eyeteeth to be where we are, to do what we do. Who would you trade with? Think about it.

Even in these uncertain times of economic crisis, global turmoil, political unrest, and seemingly ever-new challenges, our profession remains our beacon and our foundation. Veterinary medicine enables us to work with animals, to experience and embrace new developments in medicine and technology, and to make a living. Does this mean that there are not pressing issues that we need to face? Does this mean that we are immune to the whims and fortunes of economic tides? Does it mean that we are free of the turbulence that grips our way of life socially and philosophically? Absolutely not. Nevertheless, veterinary medicine provides us with much more than a livelihood. It helps forge our identities. The public still respects veterinary medicine. We are leaders in our communities in everything from city, state, and federal government to shelter management and the PTA. Through a strong work ethic and dedication to public education and community service, veterinarians remain in one of the most admired and trusted professions.

We have a lot to be thankful for. The wonderful diversity of what we do every day and the interesting nature of fighting disease. The outstanding people that we meet and work with and the fascinating animals that we regularly deal with ensure that our jobs are neither routine nor mundane. Consider your many blessings! Your staff, your family, your prestige in your community. Still, there is a karmic cost to these blessings. You have to earn them by hard, unselfish work and a lifelong commitment to your profession. If you are willing to make these sacrifices, the benefits will come back to you in spades. We veterinarians have so much to be thankful for. Take a minute today to reflect on your good fortune. Truly, there are not many people that you would trade with!

See you next week, Kev