Mark looked happy, like a baby who just had a taste of ice cream for the first time. From the smile on Mark's face, one could see that Mark was excited.
I have known Mark for about six years now, and he has always been a happy fellow. Mark and I became friends under an interesting circumstance. We were both traveling in the same bus, and because of my height, the seat I got was very uncomfortable. I asked everyone, including the guy who sat by the door, if I could take his seat, but he declined. Mark offered me his seat, and that was how we became friends.
"Congratulations, Mark, on your appointment as the Medical Director," I said as Mark and I shook hands. "Thank you, my friend," Mark replied. I was really happy for Mark. He had always told me he wanted to rise to the top of his career.
Mark worked as a doctor at St. Peter's Hospital. This hospital was located in a village called Dadiju. The village was more like a farmer's settlement. I kept wondering why Mark chose to work in such a village. The condition was not conducive, and the village is a two-hour drive from the city.
"Mark, why do you love this village so much?" I asked. Mark looked at me and said "Something influenced my decision". I began to wonder what had influenced his decision. "Mark, can you share with me what influenced your decision?" I said. Mark looked at me and smiled.
Mark pointed to a chair, and I sat. He said to me, "I will tell you a story, and you will see why I love this village." Mark sat on the couch, and I could see a young man who wanted to pour out his heart.
"Eighteen years ago, my family and I visited Dadiju village. As you know, my mother deals with agricultural produce. We went to get some pineapples from a farmer. As we got to the farm, my mom all of a sudden stopped talking, and she could not move her body. We all panicked; all I could do was pray for her. Dad drove to the clinic in the village. On getting there, we met this young doctor. The doctor rushed and administered some medication to mom after we had explained to him what had happened to her. The doctor was a young man who was so committed to his job, and he did it with a smile on his face. The way he handled the whole situation was just amazing. Right at that moment, I made up my mind that I would become a medical doctor. I want to save lives. I was influenced by that young doctor. And I promised myself that one day I would come back to this village and save lives".
I could now see why Mark is so passionate about his job. I looked at Mark and said "The young doctor was indeed a great influence" Mark smiled, clapping his hands. He said "We have to be good role models for the next generation".