Worries

I have experienced and witnessed many risks and perils of practicing medicine and surgery. But I can say with little trepidation that I don't think I'll ever have to worry about blowing up. At least I hope not.

Can you imagine knowing that this risk is possible? I have such reverence and awe of physicians practicing their craft in the regions of the world today that put them at risk of serious injury or death. There are many countries in this world today in such circumstances. While they (the physicians) make great efforts to alleviate pain, suffering and permanent disability, they are under "attack" literally for their own. I'll try not to worry as much about the pain and suffering of studies as I return to school.

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Gustav has arrived. There has been great preparation, warnings, mandatory evacuations (New Orleans) and a God-sent lessening of wind (now Cat 2) as the storm arrives on the coast this morning. It is finally here.  Photos are slow to trickle out of Cuba, but there was much damage to structures and agriculture. The true extent should be known in the next few days. There are supposedly 1700 National Guard in the New Orleans area. Wouldn't it be interesting if the federal and state governments had the same over-reaction to the tragedy of the response in healthcare? Just a thought.

8AM...GUSTAV WEAKENS TO A CATEGORY TWO HURRICANE...EYEWALL MOVING ONTO THE SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA COAST...

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Horoscope: Monday, Sep 1st, 2008 -- "Although today may be a day of rest and relaxation, you can still gain respect in the eyes of your friends and family. You seem to be able to do the right thing.  You are happy to enjoy the company of others, but you have serious goals on your mind and should pay attention to any interactions that could move you closer to your destination..."

It's Labor Day and a day of rest. The sun is out on the West Coast of Florida and it's time for a walk on the beach. My daughter is sleeping late as most teenagers like to do, and I'll get my walk in while she sleeps. It's going to be a lazy day, filled with random acts of spontaneous thought and activity that have nothing to do with much of anything related to school and my destination. Labor day is essentially destinationless sprinkled with thankfulness for the labor of others, and the labors of the past.