‘Use what talents you possess. The woods would be very silent if no birds sang there, except those that sang best.’ (Henry Van Dyke)
Our School would be much less vibrant without those who courageously share existing talents and those who try something new.
Last weekend, I enjoyed an indulgent treat of many different talents at the Artefacts Variety Show, served alongside those other talents of confidence, leadership, organisational skills and teamwork.
It was also such a pleasure to be with our prize winners and their friends and family this month, to recognise excellence in their academic talents as well as in their approach to being a doctor.
This month has seen lots of instances where the breadth of skills that make up a ‘good doctor’ have been on show. Our Y1 have been building their approach to the team relationships that underpin leadership, echoed in the sporting teamwork success of our Cricket club and the careful planning, courage and quick thinking of skydiving.
Stepping forwards to support others and engage in diagnosing problems and finding creative solutions are our new course reps, and also those who teach. All such talents help enhance what we can bring to the many future careers that medicine offers as well as balancing their intensity. And at a time of deep challenges worldwide, the wall of personal strength and collective support they build is all the more important.
The next Artefacts event is the Carol Concert. Irrespective of our faith backgrounds, and despite the usual temperature of the venue (thermals advised!) it is one that always offers a warm glowing reminder of the care for others that is at the heart of our community in Liverpool, and why we have chosen medicine. Indeed, applying the quote I began with, you may spot an additional ‘lifelong student’ in the choir, trying to follow those who sing best.