Yesterday I put on a heavy red robe, a goofy hat, and walked into a big arena filled with cheering spectators. I sat through some long speeches, walked across a big stage with my face plastered on the JumboTron, and accepted a heavy green hood around my neck. Someone called me "Doctor" for the first time and I gladly received a diploma that was about the size of my entire body.
Two days ago I was a medical student and today I am a physician. Granted, I am still far from competent, but hopefully I'll figure out what I'm doing after a few years of grueling residency.
There was, of course, one important person missing at my graduation -- my husband. The keynote speaker asked everyone to raise their right hand, grab a memory out of the air, and hold it to our hearts. He told us to think of the one important person who has supported us - the person who has helped us through the journey.
"That person may or may not be here today," he declared.
With my hand on my heart, I thought of him. I am so very lucky to have married a man who loves me, pushes me to pursue my dreams, and supports me through the good times and bad times. Even though he was across the world, I continued to feel his love and pride.
