The Intricacies Of Life

By Nirmala Ganapathy

Dreaming of becoming a doctor as an 18 year old soft and sensitive girl, just to fulfill my family’s medical needs,

I never knew becoming a plastic surgeon would give me will power and strength; far beyond imagination exceeds.

Passing through MBBS with the heaviest of books and the syllabus infinite,

Slogging as an intern, running around serving my patients at any time of the day or night;

Suturing of a laceration, comforting a patient, dressing up their wounds, was where i found my true happiness and my best version

It was something that brought me utmost joy, and pushed me to become a surgeon.

Life is very tough for a female surgeon, ”Don’t do it!” they said, and discouragements poured,

But always by my side stood the sweetest and most supportive father, who always stereotypes ignored.

And constantly inspiring me were the strongest women in my life, my sister and my mother;

“Go do it! We are with you at every step!” they said, you’re not a girl who’s just another!

Starting my journey in General Surgery at Asia’s biggest and India’s busiest hospital, the first few months as an eye opener came,

Dealing and fighting with the patriarchy and creating your place as an equal; is the toughest part of the game!

Inculcating in yourself the surgical discipline, toughening up, to be at all times alert and aware,

Helping me at every step, I met my strongest pillar of support, with whom now my life I share!

Starting my MCh Plastic Surgery and getting married, as these events started side by side,

Both opened my eyes to the intricacies of life, a new vision I eyed!

Of how fine sutures, meticulous dissection, gentle tissue handling can make the scar and wound sound,

Of how keeping your house spotlessly clean can fill your mind with positivity profound!

Cooking and cleaning, being the basic life skills should be learnt by everyone, be it a girl or a guy;

As you focus on the finest details to make the perfect dish, to a new horizon your mind unfurls!

This skill set makes you independent and unknowingly your professional skills polish,

The finest details and the tiniest effort will be for your patient, a perfect finish!

Going through 6 years of rigorous surgical residency, giving the toughest entrance exams, makes your mind go through huge ups and downs,

Amongst all the overwhelming hustle, let not your personality and your little joys drown.

Entering your 30s, watching your parents get old, adds to the emotional whirlpool.

Yoga and spirituality, can bring to you peace of mind and the strongest sense of calmness and cool.

The cycle of karma is something I have truly started to believe,

As we are running around, chasing our dreams, with all kinds of stressors up our sleeve.

How good deeds and kindness helps you all along and takes you a long way.

A supportive family, good health and happiness is all that matters, should be the ultimate goal of life, something that is here to stay!

By Nirmala Ganapathy