When I was a child, I remember playing on a pile of stones and pebbles, which constructors used in building homes. My aunt just bought me a “doctor set” of toys, complete with fake stethoscope and thermometer. I think that was the 
moment when I decided that I wanted to be a doctor when I grew up. When my dad had a stroke and I actively took part in his rehabilitation, I concluded that I would be a physical therapist, instead. Fast forward to the present, I am neither a doctor nor a physical therapist. However, I am still in the medical field.
A part of me is scared that my childhood dream will never achieve its realization. See, I am the kind of person who goes after what I want and focuses on it with fierce tenacity. I have noticed that even though it may take a while for me to secure something I set my mind to, I eventually obtain it. Some people say we do not always get our heart’s desire. On the contrary, it is a matter of how bad you want something and how willing you are to work hard in procuring it.
My unyielding obstinacy is my greatest ally in accomplishing my goals. I am aware that unexpected circumstances occur — loss of a loved one, flickering doubt about a choice of career, or a sudden epiphany which makes someone steer in a different direction. An abrupt change which shepherds the journey on unprecedented path. I know this. As much as I vehemently crave for a smooth navigation towards my plans, I know that life enjoys throwing a few surprises along the way. Nothing is set in stone. Life is a series of astonishing mutations, resolute in reaching the best outcome possible. Darwin’s theory of Natural Selection is alive and well, folks. Fortunately, I refuse to remain a stolid observer and disappear into extinction. Time for Plan B.
When an impetuous event transpires, my mind instinctively goes through a variety of plausible tactics to anticipate any conceivable harm. This inherent gift has saved me from probable disasters a few times. It is as if my brain has different compartments for various impending scenarios, ready to perform its scheduled reconnaissance.
Does this mean I have never been caught unaware? Of course not. There have been moments when I have remained oblivious to an imminent doom. But instead of simply sinking into oblivion, I have learned to recognize my mistakes and have vowed to be more cognizant next time. Second opportunities are hard to come by, so I do not expect them. I just take pleasure in the knowledge that I have gained from the lapses. Although, there may have been times when I berate myself for not being mindful enough, I shun the idea of being too difficult on myself. I must learn to let go and move on.
How do I know where to proceed from a previous mistake? I follow my inner compass — the elemental guide which has directed my route throughout the years. Divine inspiration? Maybe. But it is more of an ingrained voice that navigates my decisions. I have a goal, and my mind is focused on that sole thing. Whatever abrupt interruption blocks my path, I tackle it and then return my concentration on the goal, afterwards. It helps to have a one-track mind, sometimes.
The question of how far I will go in my field has plagued my thoughts constantly. I know I won’t be fully happy if I do not accomplish the dream that was brought forth by the “doctor set”. Will there be a title of “Doctor” that will preceed my name in the future? The answer is a glimmer of silhouette that hovers in my mind. However, there is one thing for which I am certain: I have not yet reached what I set myself to achieve. Am I scared? A little. But, I know I will be fine as I have my inner compass to guide me.
Art: CapturingMoods
2009 is here. So what awaits humanity this year?
I went grocery shopping this morning, and bought myself 4 bananas. They looked so good in bright yellow with a hint of green. And my goodness, they were also huge and fat! I swear, fruits are getting bigger every time I go to the market. Thanks to Genetics, I can now make a banana into a whole meal itself.
Earlier today, my stomach was making this embarrassing gurgling noise (made sense as it was already way past lunchtime), so I decided to pacify the hunger inside my body.
