When I arrived in Pensacola nearly 33 years ago, I began working without thinking much about the people I would need to involve in my life. But, when my prescription for an important medication needed to be refilled, I found myself looking for a doctor. I asked my physician in Olathe, Kansas, for his recommendations. To no one’s surprise, my Kansas doctor had no contacts in Florida. But, he did some research and recommended that I contact a nationally known physician who practiced in my area. And, so I called that office to see if they would take a new patient who needed a prescription filled – fast!

The receptionist was sweet but firm. The “famous” doctor would be unable to add me to his already large list of patients. But, he had a new associate and perhaps I would consider her. I needed my drugs, had no other options, and immediately said “Sounds great. When is her next available appointment?”

The first time I met Diana Harris, I was impressed. She listened, she asked great questions, she took her time and she heard my concerns and my desires. And, for 33 years I found that her patient skills were always top notch. Diana knew me before I knew John. She struggled with me through weight loss and then she didn’t scold when I went through weight gain. She guided me long distance when I became ill while traveling and needed to select over the counter drugs that would get me safely through long flights and back into her office. She even gave me the name of her cleaning lady when the stress of work and life were aggravating health issues.

Last week, I called her office to set up an appointment and learned that she had retired. Yes, I need to find another care giver. But, before I do that, how do I say “thank you” to the woman who saw me only a few times a year but knew and remembered more about my life than almost everyone else. As I think about the letter that I will write, I know that no matter what I do, it will sound “hokey.” And, that’s OK.

Sometimes, our “thank you’s” are hard to write. It is easier to just assume that no one cares if we send a note, make a call, or buy the card.

But, even if no one reads the note, we should still write it. We need to reflect and remember and appreciate those who have cared for us.

“Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan.” (Luke 17:15-16)

P.s.  I hope that Diana’s retirement is FANTASTIC!!