The passion for a life in surgery begins by “wanting” to be part of that experience. A surgeon, with rare exception, truly loves the practice of surgery. A surgeon will render operative care to the best of his ability, to the least of our society, day or night, regardless of the hours worked or patients seen. Most surgeons are dedicated to life-long learning. Passion in wanting to pursue a life in surgery is important. Surgeons, already established, can describe the feeling, but passion, as suggested by Justice Holmes, is best imparted by “contagion.”Feelings do beget feelings, and great feelings beget great feelings. Our actions, our commitment to excellence, and our commitment to a life-long study of surgery can be imparted to our students by example. The “wanting” to become a surgeon can be nurtured and developed. I have heard more than one surgeon comment with pride when a resident or trainee exhibited passion for surgery. I know that I, and those who I know best in graduate medical education, hold this quality most high.
📝 Make note, the passion for surgery and the true wanting to become a surgeon can be observed when meeting any doctor or student. Passion and a pursuit of excellence constituted the “fire in the hearts” of our surgical forebears. And as it was then, so is it now. www.drnabilfakih.com
