The Light That Needs to Shine

"What is it like to be an oncologist? How long does it usually take to get your specialization? Is there anything I should know from the start that I could learn from your education over the years in and out of school?"

From time to time students interested in the field of medical oncology ask me questions like those above. It is easy to respond to such requests with the platitudes one hears all throughout their school years - "Work hard"; "Study a lot and get good grades"; "Take lots of science classes"; "Shadow a doctor on his rounds." No matter how true they are, instead of focusing on the academic requirements of the field, I'd like to provide a different bit of advice to anyone considering a career in oncology, courtesy of the Gospel according to Matthew, 5:14:

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house."

Now think about this incisive allegory: each of us has a light inside us, a lamp that can illuminate the way for the lost, comfort those huddled in darkness, send a beacon to inspire the weary, warm the misery out of the dejected. Those who are able to spark their lamp and put it to work, to keep this gift of encouragement and "good works" going as long as it is properly tended - what better use for this than caring for those with cancer?

In my opinion, anyone with cancer who thinks they don't need this is someone who just hasn't yet met a doctor or nurse carrying a lighted lamp. The more lights shining in this darkness, the less suffering there will be. To me, that's one important step in becoming an oncologist.

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."