As we near the end of this year, I find myself pausing to reflect—not on the goals met or the milestones achieved, but on the people who made them possible. The colleagues, friends, and family who, in their unique ways, shaped this year into one I’ll carry in my heart forever.

This year brought challenges that tested my resilience, triumphs that felt sweeter because they were shared, and quiet, unexpected moments of grace that reminded me of what truly matters. Today, I want to express my deep gratitude to the people who walked this path with me, both personally and professionally.

A Story That Stuck with Me

It was a rainy Thursday morning, one of those days when the weight of responsibility feels heavier than usual. A patient had sent a heartfelt thank-you note, not just for the care I’d provided but for the conversation we shared during her visit. She had been struggling with feelings of isolation, and she said something I’ll never forget:

“You saw me, really saw me, when I felt invisible.”

Those words struck a chord, but they also stirred something deeper. They reminded me of moments earlier this year when I had felt a bit unseen myself, overwhelmed by the balancing act of being a physician, a writer, a speaker, and, at the heart of it all, a human being.

In that moment, her gratitude felt like a mirror, reflecting back the people who had seen me during my moments of struggle—friends who checked in without expecting anything, family who showed up in ways big and small, and colleagues who offered encouragement and understanding.

To My Colleagues

You are the quiet heroes of this story. To the doctors I’ve worked with, especially those in private practice, thank you for trusting me with your aspirations and challenges. Your willingness to embrace new strategies and put yourselves out there inspires me daily. I’ve learned as much from you as, I hope, you’ve learned from me.

To My Friends

This year, I’ve been reminded of the sacred gift of friendship. You’ve stood by me, not just in moments of celebration but in the in-between spaces where life feels uncertain. You’ve encouraged me to share my voice, even when it felt vulnerable.

To My Family

My family remains my greatest anchor. This year, in particular, I’ve been struck by how you never fail to show love in action—through patience, laughter, and the simple yet profound act of being present. Whether it was a late-night phone call, a shared meal, or a knowing glance, your support has been the foundation upon which I’ve built everything else.

Gratitude as a Practice

Gratitude, I’ve learned, is not just a feeling—it’s a practice. It’s in the way we show up for one another, the way we hold space for connection, and the way we acknowledge each other’s humanity.

As I look ahead, my heart feels full knowing that I’m surrounded by people who lift me higher simply by being who they are. If you’ve been part of my journey this year, thank you.

May the year ahead bring us all more moments of seeing and being seen, of giving and receiving the kind of gratitude that lingers long after the moment has passed.

Happy Thanksgiving and wonderful holidays ahead with friends and family.

With love and appreciation,

Barbara