Several years ago, fate intervened to inspired Gary LeRoy, MD, FAAFP to write a book. With the editing assistance of Ohio Academy of Family Physicians Executive Vice President Ann Spicer, he submitted the manuscript for “Quotes from the Edge of Nowhere – The Art of Noticing Unnoticed Life Wisdom” for publication later this year. Rather than wait for its fall release, he asked the OAFP staff to give Academy members something to fill up about 30 minutes of their quiet time.
It is his hope that a chapter or two will provide some element of hope or ignite an amber of inspiration during the moments of solitude of this unprecedented global crisis, COVID-19. If nothing else, it will give those who take the time to read each little chapter something to mentally reflect upon.
Until the COVID-19 crisis officially ends, the OAFP will publish one chapter each week in the Weekly Family Medicine Update and then archive that chapter on its website. The book has 10 chapters. It is Dr. LeRoy’s sincere hope that we, as a nation, emerge from this crisis long before the OAFP can publish the 10th and final chapter.
Chapter 2: “It is difficult to become the voice of reason in a crowded room when you can’t even remember why you are in the room.”
I often go to meetings with certain preconceived notions regarding likely accomplishments based on my review of the program or agenda. However, once I have comfortably situated myself in my chosen seat, I begin to scan the faces of those in attendance. I wonder how many people are there, only for acknowledgement in the meeting minutes. They aren’t mentally present. Yes, that’s right. I said it. On many occasions, I have even been one of those individuals who drag my baggage of distracting random thoughts into the meeting room with me. I acknowledge that this preexisting baggage of mental distractions blunt my ability to be fully present in the conversation.
Enjoy reading Chapter 2 .
Financial support for this program is provided by the AAFP Foundation Philanthropic Consortium (FMPC) which is funded by members like you! Help programs like this continue to support family medicine by giving to the FMPC. Select “Chapter Grants” when making your gift online. Thank you!
This is such a great initiative. Thanks so much for doing this!