Re: DPM Degrees: Dead End—Or Just a Start?

Dear Dr. Kesselman,

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your words in response to the notion that our degree is a dead end. Your response was thoughtful, eloquent, and exceptionally well stated. I am in complete agreement.

At the end of the day, this world is what we make of it, and much of what we get out of life depends on what we are willing to put into it. All of us worked incredibly hard to become doctors, not simply to earn a living, but to give back to society through helping, healing, listening, and showing compassion to those who place their trust in us. At the same time, we strive to provide a good life for ourselves and our families. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Essentially, what you speak of is blame. The blame game. As human beings, we are often far too quick to blame others for our shortcomings, our misfortunes, or our lot in life. God forbid we look inward, take responsibility, and acknowledge that perhaps some of our circumstances are the result of our own choices. Unfortunately, I believe our society has become increasingly unwilling to embrace that kind of personal accountability.

I rarely respond to this forum because I prefer to focus my energy on living my life, caring for my patients, providing for my family, and doing the very best I can for those around me, including my coworkers, colleagues, friends, and loved ones.

It is unfortunate to look around and see the current state of our society. Some might argue that this observation has little to do with the discussion at hand. But does it really? I believe the attitudes we embrace toward personal responsibility, gratitude, and professional fulfillment are very much connected to the larger world around us.

To be a podiatrist in the United States of America is a privilege. What we choose to do with that privilege is entirely up to us. We can approach each day with purpose, gratitude, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others, or we can spend our time complaining about everything we believe is wrong with our profession.

I choose the former.

Dr. Kesselman, I greatly appreciate your perspective. It is wonderful, refreshing, and, in my opinion, speaks to a truth that far too many have forgotten.God bless you.

—Robert V. Riccitelli, DPM