BIG Dreams, because it’s my birthday

I use my birthday month as a natural reflection point.  3 years ago this month, I stepped out on faith to live my life and build my career on my terms.  One year ago this month, I prepared to volunteer in Mutomo, Kenya for 6 months.  I have been back for 6 months and resumed my work schedule a locums physician in Maine and Pennsylvania.  In addition to traveling between those states, I have attended conferences, traveled to meet friends and celebrated important birthdays with family.

National Medical Association, Orlando FL
#julybday, Miami FL
#vintage, #shuggahi Nashville TN

A few weeks ago, feeling a little overwhelmed from my summer travel schedule, I found myself in Atlanta, GA for a national meeting.  The State of Black Health sought to bring together organizations, activists and individuals interested in improving the lives of marginalized and vulnerable populations.  While I love practicing clinical medicine, improving health equity is as important to me.  The sessions ranged from disparities as they related to tobacco use, LGBTQ populations, economic empowerment, and community collaborations, to updates from the Black Lives Matter movement.  While I was encouraged by the number of diverse and engaged people attending the meeting, the weight of the issues at hand seemed insurmountable.

#virgoseason, Louisville, KY
#virgoseason, 91 years young
Atlanta, GA

Taking a small break from the meeting, I met up with one of my friends from high school who has lived in the Atlanta area for more than a decade.  A very thoughtful person, she brought me a birthday gift.   Nothing extravagant, just a token in recognition of my birthday and our friendship.  That simple gesture, gave me the pick me up I needed.  It reminded me of the importance of life-long friendships and, that this journey is not by chance. It also energized me to return to the meeting determined to focus on what I can do to improve health equity and not be discouraged by what I can’t do.  My birthday dream is to live my best life by helping others live theirs.

 

 

#virgoseason, Miraval, Tuscon AZ
My birthday gift seen from the call room in Altoona, PA–If Your DREAM doesn’t scare you, it’s not BIG enough. –Gbaby
Friends, 24 years and counting

3 thoughts on “BIG Dreams, because it’s my birthday”

  1. Happy belated birthday! I can relate to your post easily. 7 years ago I spent a month volunteering in Uganda during my residency and it was the best experience of a life time and it’s what gave me the confidence to trust my own medical reasoning. anyway, best wishes;)

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