Be more forgiving.

Sometimes people don’t follow their doctor’s advice because they’re scared. Sometimes they show up late because they missed the transport van, or their car broke down, or they just overslept. Sometimes they lash out in anger or guilt, and storm off in a huff because they just can’t anymore. Sometimes they go back to the alcohol or the cigarettes or the drugs not because they want to.

Be more forgiving. To forgive is to embrace the humanity in each of us, the flaws and imperfections, the beautiful things that make us unique on this spinning rock in space. Forgiving doesn’t have to be a spectacle, it can be done in silence or with a simple gesture. By using the word “forgive” I don’t mean to imply that it’s our role to pass judgment, or to “pardon” our patients. Not at all. But our patients do, often, feel judged. They feel shame, and guilt. They see us roll our eyes when we think they’re not looking.

I’d like to think we don’t need to add to that heaviness. So whatever you call it, be more.

Understanding. Empathetic. Caring.

Forgiving.