Sitemap
1 min readOct 6, 2026

Three powerful words. For 60 years, I had my "why." To become, then to practice as a dentist. Five years ago I gave that up to become a FT caregiver for my mother, who is approaching 101. I'm doing that, but it is not "me," it is not my "why." It has been a daily routine, a purpose, but not a "why." That has been sitting on my shoulder for the last five years now, whispering and sometimes SHOUTING, "This is not who you are." But caregiving occupies two of us, pretty much 24/7. A neuropsychologist here helped me learn about burnout. It was an answer, a "what," but hasn't helped me get to a "why."

I think I've thought about "why." But I've hidden really getting to it. Because if I really named it, I'd want to go after it. But my "free time" is sporadic and unpredictable, which to me, would hinder getting into a flow. (I love language, communicating, writing. You'll eventually see me here. I believe I have a lot to add.) And writing needs a flow. I've even been interrupted in writing this!

Get DrSteve’s stories in your inbox

Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.

Any ideas, boys and girls??? Feel free. Even feeling connected would be appreciated.

--

--