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by Mary Maniscalco-Theberge, MD, FACS Vocation: a summons or strong inclination to a particular state or course of action. Surgery is not a job. It is a lifetime vocation. Surgeons have the opportunity to influence the future. Clearly, the future of the individual patient is changed by removing the disease process that is altering their well-being. In addition, surgeons influence the future of each patient's family by enabling the patient to continue to be a breadwinner, a supporter, a mentor, and a friend. But it doesn't stop there. The future of society is affected because the patient is able to continue to contribute to the community and, through taxes, influence the entire country and programs throughout the world. When a patient comes back after an operation and says a simple "thank you," remember that you have affected the world. Surgery is not just a job; it's a calling. And that is why, everyday, you get up and do what you do. Mark Your Calendar: Surgical Residents'Competifive Fonrn--6:30 p.m. Young Surgeons Dinner-7:00 p.m. Basic Science Review Course-7:30 a.m.      | ABOUT MWDC-ACS | | CALENDAR OF EVENTS | PUBLICATIONS | | CHAPTER OFFICERS | YOUNG SURGEONS COMMITTEE | |