GROWTH

As a parent, one cannot perceive the change and growth in one's children unless there are away for a prolonged period of time or unless one really looks hard.

I had the same sensation last week at lab meeting when two of my trainees presented their project progress. Both had joined the lab nearly five years ago knowing virtually nothing about prostate cancer - and, in one way - virtually nothing about cancer, generally. However, on this day, both trainees demonstrated a clear command of the field, in general, the problems they were studying, and their own data and projects.

As I sat back and took it all in, a sense of pride washed over me. I was not happy because I felt as though I was responsible for their success. Rather, I felt happy because I appreciated just how responsible they had been for their own growth and development. I felt lucky to have these two on my team, knowing that the people in our lives, including our coworkers, are not forever.

I will try to remember this feeling on the hard days when things are not going to plan or individuals do not do their best or demonstrate the command I expect them to have. Growth does not happen overnight, and if we do not pay close attention we can miss it. On that day though, growth was on full display.