When I Know Life is Good

I am a blessed man, I have a great job and great children. I also know that some times are more difficult than others. I have always lived with a belief that it is "better to die on my feet, than live on my knees." I work hard to be focused on my patients and career and yet I recognize where I am unskilled. I find that often I am hard on myself and do not look at where I am strong and valuable.

I talk with people daily and share encouragement and health advice. I love working with young families and taking kids through treatment in a kind manner. I think I am good at my profession.

I also know that I am not the finest accountant, teacher or son. I am focused on improvement and realize that in my mid-forties my chances of change are dwindling. BUT, I am not out, I am not a quitter and I am capable of change. I am committed to quality reading, learning and personal development. I will never give up on the process of learning.

Tomorrow I leave for SLC to be the keynote speaker for a dental conference for about 200 dentists. I have ten hours to share and teach and put my practice philosophy into meaningful nuggets that can be taken home to dental practices to change the way kids receive treatment.

I am amazed at the offer from the DREA and my friends to hear from me. I have something to say and it is about compassion and non-judgement, kindness and love. It is about seeing families and children as they are and as they can be. Children can be great and incredible-and treated with respect they assist with making a career great and a life worth waking up and going to work with a smile.

The greatest things in life are not things. They are relationships, encounters, when a spark of greatness is recognized. It is the gleam of the eye of the disabled child- it is when perfection is witnessed. I will need God to be patient with me as I muddle through fearful or unpredictable times. I know I have a good thing going, I have great employees and wonderful friends. I have what I need to succeed in life. the question is can I simply be happy with that knowledge or will pride get a hold on me- I want simple, compassionate and focused life. I think I have a grip on it and a focus that makes me feel good and calm. Positive change is still possible, it always will be unless we give up. No way am I giving up-don't you!