Nearing the end

My view from Room 123, Gen Med Clinic, Out-Patient Department Building, UP–PGH.

THE END of first year residency is coming—this fact I had realized when Ma’am Lia met with my batch to ask us how were were. We seemed to be doing well, she said. She was pleased with the fact that we seemed to have adapted and adjusted to the culture of residency training at PGH–IM.

That meeting with Ma’am Lia was cathartic. She knew the right questions to ask and how to ask them, and we got the funny feeling that she knows more about us than what we give her credit for. Towards the end of the meeting, she even shared bits and pieces about her own experience in training—the seniors she looked up to, some struggles she had faced. I’m grateful she’s there for us—always has been and always will—to offer guidance and insight.

As a finale, she asked us what single, most important thing we will take out of our first year experience.

Many of us mentioned the joy of the having worked and known the members of our batch. I couldn’t agree more with that observation—ours is a cohesive group with clashing yet complementary personalities. I have met many great friends in my batch mates.

I said something like this: that I take the assurance that I am where I should be, with gratefulness to God for giving me work that I truly, genuinely love. It has never been a walk in the park. I have lost sleep and dinners and rest because of training—but all these are nothing compared to the gift of learning, healing, and helping others. A motherhood statement, I know, but do indulge me.