I Can't Have Kids Yet

Times like this when I once again question whether or not my decision to pursue medicine was the right path to take:

• Family reunions where I get asked if I had a boyfriend and/or plans to get married soon. What have I been doing with my life? What will I specialize on? Add to that are the new babies every time we meet. I know they all mean well but still... oh, and I'm old enough to be maid of honor too.

• The brother's first anniversary with his girlfriend. My stone-cold brother engaging in sappy Facebook PDA, being one-half of a power couple that I admire. I am happy for them and all, but where is that one person for me? Would it have made any difference if I did not make myself so busy (consequently seeming unavailable) in medschool?

• The whole maternal clan on a night out while I tapped out and decided to forego karaoke with booze because I have an exam to cram for...

...only to find myself plagued with this question of whether or not this is still worth it. I will probably become that doctor-daughter/sister/aunt/niece in our future reunions; perhaps still single but nonetheless happy. Just know that I will never be too busy for all of you, at least I try not to. These sacrifices are all for us. I would also love to hear about your life stories (heartaches, school frustrations, what-not), not just about your health problems. I will always be 'Namae' to you, the one you witnessed growing up through the years.

To answer my question, yes, this is still worth it. Your first-born grandchild and (hopefully) first doctor in the family shall endure everything it takes to make you all proud. In the mean time, no pressure for kids/lovelife/whatever, OK? It will happen in due time.