Everybody has a story to tell.
We have origin stories about why we chose pediatrics and about our journey through training whether it was in primary care, subspecialty pediatrics or a surgical specialty. These stories all revolve around a shared lived experience, regardless of the path we followed.
I am continually delighted to learn about colleagues’ professional journeys and how they arrived at the house of pediatrics. Our commonality makes it easy to share these stories and to lean on each other in challenging times.
We also have origin stories about our families, from distant ancestors to our extended and nuclear families, and how their journeys impacted our own. These stories may be funny or tragic, but unfailingly, they are impactful. Consequently, a certain amount of trust and grace must exist between the storyteller and the listener.
One of the unanticipated gifts of serving as AAP president is the ability to share stories with colleagues across the country. I weave my story into presentations to illustrate where my passion for our work comes from and how it informs and drives what I hope we can achieve together.
I recently had the honor of kicking off the annual Leadership Conference, sharing the progress that we, as an Academy, have made in addressing the strategic initiatives approved by the Board of Directors. One of those initiatives is to improve safety and well-being within the pediatric profession. Sharing stories is one way we can support each other both personally and professionally, and bolster each other’s well-being.
During the conference, I shared the story of my crazy, wonderful and inspirational family, which includes my amazing parents, my wonderful siblings and the 10 kids who make up the next generation. What happened over the subsequent days of the meeting was both unexpected and wonderful. Every meal, every break, any time there was “white space” in the agenda, people sought me out to share their stories.
I heard stories from friends I have known for decades, with whom I have never had the chance to connect on that level. I heard stories from AAP leaders I had not previously met, who were brave and kind enough to share their tales with a relative stranger. Some stories were funny and heartwarming. Others were devastatingly poignant. All were rooted in our shared humanity, and each led to profound and deep conversation.
The National Conference & Exhibition is rapidly approaching. I am looking forward to being in Orlando, Fla., from Sept. 27 to Oct. 1 to support colleagues and the children and families for whom they care. I am excited to soak up the knowledge that will be shared by expert colleagues. I am honored to represent the AAP and share the products, policies and advocacy that have emanated from the work of our members and staff. Most of all, I am eager to hear your stories and share my stories with you.
While I know I will be pulled in a thousand different directions during the conference, if you see me, come and share a story. Better yet, share your stories with as many colleagues as you can, and welcome them to share their stories with you.
The great poet Maya Angelou said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Stories make us feel, and can further make us feel seen and heard. They provide an opportunity to build a shared experience based on an authenticity that is both rare and powerful. I can’t wait to hear yours.
