I've been thinking about all the things that I am thankful for this morning. It's a long list that includes family, friends and the blessings that come from living in our great country.

The Medical Center and all it represents make up a huge part of what I'm thankful for. I can't count all the ways, but here's a start.

Our faculty. For 30 years I have observed your dedication to your work and your passion for our mission. To work beside you in service to others is the highest honor of my life.

Our staff. Whether you work in direct patient care, in the research or teaching missions, or in a support role, you have a significant impact on the lives of others every day. Many of you are “spirit doctors” who uplift those around you - including me.

Our students. You inspire all of us. You are our future, part of our identity, our raison d'etre.  For the many of us in academia who consider what we do a calling, it is the opportunity to work with you that we are responding to.

Our patients. They entrust us with the most precious things they have - their health and their lives.  We should never take this sacred trust for granted. Our patients are our first and best teachers.

Our ability to make a difference. We are challenged daily with regulations, laws, seemingly endless (and at times meaningless) red tape. But we are in a PLACE where we can and do make a difference. We are in a PROFESSION where we can and do make a difference. We are working together for a MISSION that can and does matter. This is real and it is our greatest blessing.

For all of you - and especially those of you who are at the Medical Center caring for our patients and their families on this holiday - I wish you the happiest of Thanksgivings.