Kaleim, Liz and Rezwan I love this picture because it signifies something special. It's a picture of my sons Kaleim and Rezwan, with Kaleim's wife Liz.

What gives this picture special significance to me is that even though Kaleim and Liz were married only a few weeks ago, this is not a picture from their wedding. This was taken a little while after that, when we were all attending the wedding of a dear family friend in San Francisco.

What I really like about it is that to me this picture marks a turning point. From now on doing things as a family has new meaning. It's not just me and my sons anymore. Now I have a daughter-in-law too, and that changes our family dynamic in a great new way.

Most of us have experienced this at some point in our lives. Having a new important person enter your life brings energy into your days and new perspective to your thoughts. I have been used to being a father to two terrific sons; being a father in-law to an incredible young woman is adding an exhilarating new dimension to my life.

It's a great feeling and the good news is you don't have to wait for a family wedding to experience it. We all have "significant others" in our lives who are significant for a number of reasons. I'm lucky, my career constantly brings me in touch with new people; it's one of the things I love about what I do. I can honestly say my life becomes more enriched every time I meet someone who excites me with their ideas and passion.

I see it here at the Spear campus all the time in the relationships that develop and the people who are excited to find others who inspire them. I don't mean just being inspired by the faculty, either. One of the most gratifying things for me is to see dentists connect in a meaningful way with their fellow participants.

As we get older the circle of people around us tends to get smaller as we get more in set in our ways. This is a particular danger for dentists, who, as I often say, are part of a large profession but tend to remain on their own "islands."

My advice is to get out there and engage with the greater dental community. Connect with the significant others who can energize you. You have nothing lose and so much to gain.


Post a Comment

Comments

Commenter's Profile Image Thomas Leatherman
September 23rd, 2013
Congratulations on your expanding family Imtiaz! I, too, love making new connections and strengthening old ones. I have always admired you for your passion and messages. I know, sometime along the way, I have picked up a pearl or two from you and I appreciate it so much. I always look forward to seeing you again as I know I will gain something from it, even if it is as small as a smile. My best to you - may you have continued success, Tom
Commenter's Profile Image Denise Beaudet
December 8th, 2013
Thank you for a great article! It really hit home. I'm in the stage of suddenly "empty nest", close to retirement age, yet still have the energy and passion to keep working. But I want to work differently, with less stress. You're right on about maintaining engagement with others, community building. Congratulations on your family addition!