Gratitude Season

So, it’s that time of the year when, no matter what’s happened since January 1, we’re encouraged to slow down, take a breath, and contemplate gratitude.

And 2020 has been a rough ride; arguably, the roughest in the last 100-years. We’ve stayed at home, kept our social distance, watched way more television than recommended, but hopefully read way more as well. We’ve washed our hands just like Jack Nicholson in “As Good as it Gets.” A trip to the market has been an event to be treated carefully. A trip to the dentist might not have happened from St. Patrick’s Day to the Fourth of July. And if we were lucky, we’ve stayed healthy.

The Covid-19 virus continues to sometimes steal away our sense of smell and taste. The masks we wear to protect our families and community seem to make our listening more of a challenge and the words we use are maybe a little more selective. Don’t think I’ve ever seen so many beautiful expressive eyes.

For some, the stress of the pandemic, social issues, natural disasters like our southern California fires, and the Presidential election are almost too much. I get it; I understand. It seems harder to be patient. Collaboration is more challenging. Our natural instincts to help out, make a difference for others, can be a little more guarded and less instinctive.

As I’m writing, I’ve already read my daily morning litany of all I’m grateful for. And on that list are some things I voice to myself on the way to work but don’t necessarily share very often with the people I serve, love, and see as family. For me, on reflecting, some of the gratitude has slowly but surely slipped into those things taken for granted. And for me, November 2020 has provided a needed opportunity to look into the mirror, be grateful, say thanks, make pronouns illegal, and finally, be more aware about putting myself in the other person’s shoes.

The Coronavirus has had an impact on all of our senses. But literally losing our sense of touch; as in, sharing a hug or shaking or holding hands just doesn’t seem fair. I don’t know about you guys, but for me, loneliness is a condition that prompts looking back at things like family, friendships, and relationships captured in experiences that, in too many instances, are lost or at risk.

I want more of those experiences to share; I want of them for our dental practice family. And rather than be overwhelmed or blindsided by all the stuff we can’t control; I’m going to be more intentional about looking for possibilities and opportunities to share acts of kindness.

A valued mentor once suggested, “What you’re looking for is somewhere out there looking for you.” Why not try it out?

Thank you for all your trust, support, and friendship. Far from being taken for granted, you are loved and appreciated,

Dr. V