As I was treating one of my patients the other day with a crown preparation, I reflected upon just how much I was enjoying this act of micro-sculpting. It reminded me of a passage from a book that I’m currently reading: Second Innocence-Rediscovering Joy and Wonder by John Izzo, Ph.D.
“Craft comes from a German word for power and strength; to be a craftsman is to let our inner power come forth into our outer work. A craftsman is never fully satisfied because the nature of a craft is to move toward perfection-and perfection is an ideal we cannot achieve. Paying attention to our craft is to look at something we have seen a thousand times and to see more possibilities…we are …explorers who like discovering better ways to do things.”
Just as an artist never tires of painting, I still get a thrill from practicing my craft of dentistry. The added wonder and joy is that my canvas is the person I am treating.
Here’s a link if you are interested in buying this book. I highly recommend it!
Ashley Sinkin says
As a 22-year old grad student, I can totally relate to this sentiment. Too frequently, we are bogged down by the daily niceties of life (for me, perpetual studying, paper writing research, due-dates)but those occasional moments of inspiration and volitional affinity towards what we work so hard at everyday reminds us that the grit and stress of it all is worth it.
May Luk says
I always thought a good dentist is also a good sculptor. Moreover, It *is* a craft to make somebody’s mouth and face look good…and with little pain. “-)
Michael Sinkin says
I totally agree…and nothing makes me happier than doing that for my patients. Thanks so much for the comment, May.