Affirmation

I am truly counting my lucky stars. What I heard today about myself had been very unexpected but utterly flattering.

It was a usual quiet morning at the workplace, post New Year holidays. I grabbed the rare opportunity to have a chat with my senior consultant, the very saviour who had graciously sponsored me for my much desired employment here. I honestly informed him about the circumstances of my potential job offer by the Paediatrics department and earnestly requested a testimonial from him, which he readily agreed to.

Then, with bated breath, I asked for a feedback for my performance so far in his department, citing my desire for further self improvement. His answer turned out to be extremely encouraging, to my pleasant surprise. He mentioned several positive qualities which he perceived that I possessed, though he did comment that I appeared rather anxious at the beginning of my job. But he reckoned that he would rather have a staff who was apprehensive about her standard and would strive to improve herself, rather than be complacent and stagnant as a result. I laughed at myself for having been the freak queen in the department.

The most heartening sentence which came forth would be: "Elizabeth, you have come very far at this stage of your life." He continued to affirm that I had been much better than what I would have thought about myself. He was impressed with my knowledge and skills and would not have hesitated to employ anyone else who would have originated from Singapore subsequently (Phew, glad I did not spoil the Singaland market).

I certainly do not mean to brag and boast about myself here. I know I am not perfect and my only wish is to do some good difference for my patients and those in need. This, I had reiterated to my consultant as well. But this was definitely the highlight of the day, and for my present life journey and career. It was an added consolation for me leaving my comfort zone and carving my life here. It was an affirmation for all my efforts put in to make up for the troughs that I had endured. And I sincerely believe that it would be better as the days go by.