December 2007

Contentment

by Dr. Ogi Ressel

Lots of cards and letters followed last month's column. Guess I'm getting under your skin and that's good!

I've discussed many things with you ‑‑ fear tactics, magic, being inspired, being the best, etc. Yet, there's another issue that I also want to address. It's one few have ever touched: Contentment.

Contentment is that nebulous, middle‑ground territory somewhere between happiness and despair. It's feeling simply "ok" about life. It's not really being excited about where you are and what you do. It's hum‑drum. It's like sitting in your rocking chair watching life go by from your window and not really feeling a part of it.

It's... not giving back to the Universe, not making waves, not taking a stand, not really being all that happy. Contentment is scraping the bottom of the jar of dried up peanut butter, eating leftovers, standing at the dock while your cruise ship sails away. It's a life with no exuberance, no excitement. It's missing your stop, missing your train... and missing your life.

I can see those cards and letters coming now. Well, bring 'em on!

You need to remember that being a chiropractor is not some cool career you've stumbled onto by accident. It's not some weird job you thought you'd try out for. No, it's a calling. It's a mission. You did not choose to be a chiropractor because someone told you it's an ok job and you can make lots of money at it. Absolutely not. You were chosen! I believe this with my whole being. It takes a very special person to do what you do in the face of overwhelming adversity from the medical propaganda machine and the pharmaceutical armada ‑‑ and we are blowing them away!

Listen, someone once told me that the only way you can get kicked in the behind is when you're in front. Now, there's a concept.

Take a look at the numbers of people you've helped who had given up hope. Take a peek at the lives you've saved and the numbers of people you've rescued from the clutches of experimental surgery. Look at the children who no longer have their condition because of you. Revel in the knowledge that they will now have a wonderful life thanks to you!

Take a look at their parents who are so grateful that you came into their lives. Look into the eyes of a mother as you hold her face in your hands while she's thanking you for helping her child with asthma. Look into the eyes of an infant and feel the presence of a Greatness that humbles your very soul. Dance with a senior as you lead her to your adjusting table. Listen to the voices of your patients as they love you to bits. Look at all those who are waiting in line for the next available opening to see you.

Now, tell me this: How can you possibly feel hum‑drum? How can you possibly feel just "content" with your life ‑‑ just ok, ho‑hum, pleasant?

If you aren't deliriously thrilled and fired‑up and totally purpose‑driven, we really need to talk. Feel very welcome to call me. (And I want you to know that I have beatings for you until your morale improves!)

Contentment... take it outside with your garbage. You life has no room for it!

(Dr. Ogi Ressel, author, researcher, and an x‑ray and pediatric specialist, teaches The Practice Evolution Program, the "fastest‑growing coaching program on the planet." Visit online at www.practiceevolution.com  and take the Practice Health Mini‑Checkup. Dr. Ressel may be contacted by e‑mail at drogi@practiceevolution.com  or by calling 800‑353‑3082. Interested in receiving his weekly THOTS "on seeing tons of children and families in your practice?" Send him an e‑mail and asked to be added to the list.)