I am writing this entry on the morning after our 34th Annual Patient Appreciation Night. I want to thank our patients that stopped by as well as tell our patients that could not join us that you were missed. As I stated before and will do so again, I am the luckiest doctor in the world to have such an incredible practice of amazing patients.
One of our patients brought in a brochure that we had mailed to her house well over 25 years ago. This marketing piece contained a picture of me from that time as well as enumerating “why” we would be a great practice to come to. I was astonished to see a very young ”Dr. Posner” and I was immediately flooded with memories of the many years I have been coming to the same office, incredible patients that have allowed me the privilege of being their doctor, the wonderful nurses and admin staff that have worked with me and on the personal side and my loving family that have supported my efforts all of these years. Great memories for sure.
Turning this discussion of memories from mine to all of ours: The human brain is sort of protective in that we will tend to have conscious memories of the “good things” that have occurred and try to bury some of the “not so good” events that occurred in our lives. For example, many people (including me) will describe the college years as the “best years of our lives”. We will remember the fun times, the parties, the romantic relationships, etc. but the late study nights, fights with roommates and other negative events will be forgotten memories.
We all strive to have “good things” happen to us and these will turn into “good memories”. Negative events, such as losing loved ones, relationship breakups and toxic work environments will turn into “bad memories”.
Probably some of the worst memories we all have are related to health issues that occurred to ourselves or loves ones. Memories of hospitals, being laid up and not being able to work, experiencing pain…all of these and more are great fodder for bad memories.
Successful weight control will dramatically increase the odds of many more “good memories” being made than bad ones. Stay focused and steadfast on your efforts to shed that weight. Many more good times that will turn into good memories will follow.
And, sorry to cart out this very old song, but I want to thank all of you for the great memories I have of being your doctor. Here is Bob Hope singing his signature song.