TSGE Presidential Update Summer 2024

 Saudade

"Saudade is a word for a sad state of intense longing for someone or something that is absent. Saudade comes from Portuguese culture, and it is often expressed in its literature and music. Saudade is described as a kind of melancholy yearning." 

- Google Search

Saudade also describes my feelings at this time of year. It is the end of the school year and beginning of summer for my kids. I have rising 5th, 8th, and 10th graders. Saying goodbye to the school year, school friends, and school teachers is sad. Some of whom will not return next year. But there is eagerness for the growth and advancement that the next year will bring. Eagerness for the rest that summer will bring to anxious hearts and tired minds. 

I am rarely torn by the emotions that come with change. I am a growth-a-holic. Let's all grow up! Myself included. There are prizes just around the corner. I welcome the end of our elementary school journey at the end of next year. I avidly anticipate my oldest getting his driver's license in November. 

Yet at the end of this school year I have saudade. A part of me wants to freeze this moment and let my kids enjoy change without the drastic change that will come next year with having to switch schools.

The feeling of saudade that my kids engender has carried over into my feelings about TSGE. My term as President is nearing its end. I'm not sure but this may be my last newsletter (There might be one more). I have mixed emotions. This role is not ceremonial, there is work involved. I will be glad of the work I've done and glad to let the next person do it. That person is Prashant Kedia who brings relative youth and vigor. I will also be sad to relinquish a position that leads such a noble organization. What this Society does is indeed for the betterment of human kind. We help gastroenterologists help people. I will be glad, honored, humbled, and sad to be a Past-President of this Society. 

I wish for all of you a happy, restful, and productive Summer. See you all in Austin in September for a fabulous Annual Meeting at the new Austin Marriott! It is going to be great! 

Respectfully,