If It Weren’t For

A neighbor of my mother’s.  Who upon accompanying her to her first party as a freshman at the University of Michigan introduced her to a boy.  A boy who was a senior and was about to start medical school.  That boy was my father.

If It Weren’t For

Mononucleosis.  Or at least that it was my mother said my father had.  The time he stayed home for work and I was conceived.  She swears by it.  All these years later.  She also said that they used protection.

If It Weren’t for

My father’s sudden death when I was eight years old.  A tragic event no doubt.  But it made concrete in me the idea of becoming a doctor.  I idolized him.  And I unconsciously made a promise that I would carry on his legacy.

If It Weren’t For

A learning disability.  By the time I was in second grade it was clear that I couldn’t learn like other kids.  The teachers had a conference with my mom and sent me to neuropsychological testing.  And then they sent me to an educational specialist named Phyllis.  Phyllis taught me about the true meaning of the word healer.  And things got better.

If It Weren’t For

My mother getting her nails done every week at the salon.  She wouldn’t have met my mother in law.  Nor conceived of a plot to join their two children together.  A plot that would eventually end in marriage.

If It Weren’t For

My wife’s college roommate.  Who heard honesty and kindness in the voice of a boy calling for her friend.  Who not only took a dutiful message but also encouraged that friend that it would be rude to not call back.

If It Weren’t For

The birth of my son and daughter.  I would have never realized the pit of despair and isolation that residency had placed me in.  I wouldn’t have fought back to life and destroyed the horrible walls I had surrounded myself with.

If It Weren’t For

Jim Dahle calling me to write a review of The White Coat Investor .  I would never have discovered the financial independence blogosphere or started writing about the philosophy of money.  I wouldn’t have discovered Physician on Fire who was the impetus to attend CamFi Midwest.

If It Weren’t For

CampFi Midwest (thanks Stephen) I would never have felt all the love and support of this community.  I would have never met Paul Thompson or started The What’s Up Next Podcast.

And If It Weren’t For

All of you.  I would have never had the courage or fortitude to move forward with my half retirement and forge a new more meaningful future.

From the bottom of my heart,

Thank you.

Happy Thanksgiving!