Services & Techniques

As I reflect on this past year, it always amazes me how much change can occur in one year. Certain aspects of our office cause us to pull records and I see names of patients who have passed, who have moved on, and some that I haven’t seen for a while. We were flooded with treats and gifts the last few weeks, and with that, cards and letters. So I know it isn’t just my office, but all of us have experienced changes which becomes very clear to me as I hear and read your stories; death, new life, new careers, new opportunities, failures, and lessons.

One thing I am more aware of as I get older is my own ‘bubble.’ I have a regular routine that is filled with like-minded folks that like many of the same things I do. I enjoy my bubble. As different conversations occur – especially in health care – it is easy to become more convicted in my own beliefs as the people who passionately disagree with me don’t tend to stick around too long – either by their choice or mine! Some of those beliefs have been re-enforced this year as new patients arrive from states much different than ours – almost as a refuge. I think we are fortunate to be in South Dakota, and especially to be in Rapid City. I truly never thought I would see freedoms so willingly be given up. And yet, with social media and the ease of communication (both truthful and not so truthful) I do find myself questioning some of my previously held convictions. Maybe if I was in a different career, or I lived in a different city my beliefs would be different. One of my favorite speakers is Jordan Petersen and he often brings up an idea regarding Nazi soldiers in WW2. I forget the exact quote, but something to the effect of …”don’t be so quick to judge these people. Don’t think for an instant that if you weren’t put in their same shoes, you wouldn’t make the same choices; especially if it meant saving your life or the life of your family.”

One thing that has been made clear to me is throughout this year and last is that time marches on. Even with the rising infection of fear in our society, we do, and we must, move forward. Locking oneself in and avoiding human interaction simply is not a long term solution to any problem. The ‘what ifs can paralyze us and I’ll admit I am not immune to that same fear from time to time. With that being said, I am optimistic for 2022. Personally, change is hard for me, and I am diving in with both feet this coming year. Thank you for being in my bubble. Thank you for supporting my dream of a chiropractic office that shows the care for patients that my grandfather showed his patients. It hasn’t been easy for any of us, but with that I am even more grateful with the challenges we have overcome.