A true "defining moment"

Actually, it's a "defining month," but that's just semantics. So here's what's going to happen...each day for the next month (while I'm on Ob-Gyn), I will be chronicling my adventures (and my misadventures) in this space. I will attempt to be as fair and objective as possible, but I will warn you now: I WILL make editorial comments on both the good and the bad. Also, in case you haven't gathered from the title of the blog (and from my bio), I am a practicing Roman Catholic and I have strong objections to abortion, contraception, and sterilization. Part of the objective in my taking time to do this each day is to give a firsthand account of how these issues arise in daily practice at Magee and to what degree a pro-life student will be affected by them.

All I can say now is that I'm terrified. I don't quite know what to expect...I've heard so many different stories from so many different people, and I have no idea what my experience will be like. I guess I'm hoping for the best, expecting the worst, and praying for the strength to stand strong and not falter. Orientation starts at 8 tomorrow...prayers would be tremendously appreciated, both then and throughout the rotation.

One last thing: I've decided I'm going to make a conscious effort to be as positive as I can, so as a theme song of sorts I've decided on one of my favorite hymns (sorry, this was the best version I could find on YouTube). Peace and God bless!



"And whether our tomorrows / Be filled with good or ill, / We'll triumph through our sorrows / And rise to bless Thee still!"

A couple of really good songs...

Both from the musical Rent.


You can find the lyrics for Seasons of Love here.



And for finale B (Another Day reprise), the lyrics are here. Enjoy!

Peace and God bless!

Sing a little song...

PalPITTations is back and (after knocking some of the rust off) better than ever! If there's a better way to improve an already satisfactory day than by spending some time singing with friends, I have yet to discover it. It really is more fun than you might think, given the discipline and practice that are required even for our laid-back little group. Just being able to sing is a release and a joy in itself, and to hear a song coming together, the voices blending in a vibrant harmony...it's really its own reward. It's especially gratifying after a day spent doing virtually nothing but studying cardiology. It's the playtime that helps to refresh the mind after hours of intense work, and while it can seem like it's wasted time ("I NEED TO BE STUDYING!!!"), I know it helps me be better prepared for the tasks that still lay ahead. After all, burning out now sure won't do me any good.

Anyway, life right now is surely good, which is a blessing for which I'm very thankful. It stands to get even better (albeit infinitely crazier) next week when we get to go start playing doctor again. I'm absolutely looking forward to it! In the meantime, could I ask those of you who read this to keep a special intention in your prayers? Thanks, it's always appreciated!

Peace and God bless!