I have gained some kind of momentum by the latest 2 posts.... and It has always been in me to type-down my thoughts.
I have recently posted in Facebook that I have been blessed with all my teachers, lecturers and mentors in life. - It is quite true from my heart. Although I try to learn from everyone I see and meet, my "official" teachers are nothing less but an amazing teachers.
One latest one would be a Malay Consultant Cardiologist who shared with me how he sees patients.
Imagine, this patient is not the only soul in the consultation room, He or She may be married, may have children, may have parents, may have very close friends... all of which would care for him/her. We must feel responsible for the consequences of our actions, and every procedure we do or every medicine we prescribe, We should be aware, and They should be aware... imagine, if you have undertaken a procedure that have unfortunately taken the life of a patient (of course, all things considered, lets say it was something unforeseen and could not have been prevented). the patient may have a daughter who says "what happened to papa?" - always give a complete explanations of the possible risks involved to the patient and also give them time to explain to their families... it is our responsibility.This concept of person as a whole community kind of perception - it really resonates with me, and once we hold responsible of our actions and thoughts like this, I think we'll have no choice but to do the best job we possibly can.
My current mentor in my university - he is an Indian O&G consultant, - I cannot even begin what important things he said to me... I write him a report weekly of what I have learnt and thought during the week, and he never fails to give me a feedback - after reading my report, which is a substantial amount!
He is continuously guiding me through the process of learning, and gives me a reassurance that I am not so off my tracks in my stages of learning. this almost religious reassurance has been probably something that have helped me breath through medical school.
My previous Mentor in pre-clinicals has also been a great teacher - He was an excellent lecturer, would always make sure student understood. there was always a personal touch to his speech. He would find me in the crowd of students, and ask me questions. It kept me on my edge, but I guess that was very good for me.
I also learn from every conversation between my friends, and even patients whom I have the opportunity to speak to... I consider them as my teachers too.
From the extent and amount of blessings I get from those teachers, It really inspires me to share what I have learnt, to other people. It would be my pleasure to be able to share what people have shared me, and that would be why I would be interested in writing books, or teaching in the future (of course, when I have a more complete knowledge!)
I don't really know how to thank all those teachers - but I think keeping the things they said in my mind, and passing it on to the next generation isn't so far off from what they'd be comfortable with.