Merry Christmas

This year, I didn’t really feel very ‘Christmassy’. A hoard of not-so-good-news probably dampened the mood considerably.

A close friend discovered or suspect she has cancer; another friend’s car engine burned down (bringing to mind my own nightmare; and he drives a Matrix too!); a fellow colleague discovered he has HIV; a wonderful friend/fellow blogger/coffee-table-mate left for East Malaysia; another good and another dear friend will be leaving for the island down south; 3 ex-students on HAART for needle-stick-injury; a not-so-encouraging verbal told-off by the big boss recently for something quite beyond my control; and the list goes on and on and on.

Not much cause for celebration, surely.

At the same time I have been reflective these past few days.

I am surrounded by a loving family, friends who care about me and wonderful work mates.
I have enough to eat and more; a shelter above my head; good clothes to wear.
I got a promotion this year; a paper published and got registered as a specialist.
I have 2 strong, loving and healthy children. I have a new nephew!
I have patients who are doing very well and happy.

And yet, some times my words or action have been rash or harsh; quite unbecoming even.

God has been good to me and my loved ones (which includes everyone of my patients who are more like friends than patients).

And these are good enough reasons for celebration.

As the year draws to an end, I would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to all who have supported, cared and loved me and ‘thank you’ to my patients for the privilege of being your physician;

And a HUGE ‘SORRY’ to those whom I have unknowingly hurt or grief by my words or action. My hope is that you will find the grace to forgive.

And to wish one and all:

Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Christmas Eve, December 2009 @ 1900

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