'Twas three nights before Christmas, and all through the house,
A med student sat quiet, still as a mouse.
The textbooks were hidden in luggage with care,
In hopes that family wouldn't see them there.
The relatives nestled all snug in their beds,
While drug interactions danced in the student's head.
Mom in her kitchen, and Dad with the tree,
Had no idea their child studied till three.
When out in the kitchen there arose such a sound,
Aunt Carol was asking when "Doctor" came 'round.
"So when do you graduate? What's your specialty?"
The questions that haunted through every party.
The student just smiled and tried to explain,
That January brings exams and academic pain.
But how do you tell them while they're full of cheer,
That you're mentally planning your study schedule for the new year?
When what to their wondering eyes should appear,
But Dr. Kat's wisdom to calm every fear.
With resources so thoughtful and approach so bright,
She knew how to balance this holiday plight.
"Now breathe deep! Now smile wide! Now be present today!
On boundaries! On self-care! Let stress drift away!
You can't study every minute! That's perfectly fine!
Take this break that you need - it's part of the design!"
She spoke of the balance 'tween family and books,
Of stealing study moments without getting looks.
Of changes ahead as the new year draws near,
"We're becoming Archer Medical this coming year!"
"OnlineMedEd's growing, evolving with you,
Archer Medical's coming - exciting and new!
But tonight isn't about the changes ahead,
It's about being home, being loved, being fed!"
"Remember," said Dr. Kat with warmth in her voice,
"Being home for the holidays is also a choice.
Yes, exams are coming, yes, January's near,
But these moments with family happen once a year."
She left them with wisdom as she signed off her note:
"While you're home making memories ease your mind,
Study a bit, but mostly take moments - they're harder to find."
The student looked up from their phone with relief,
Maybe this balance wasn't beyond belief.
They could be present AND plan, enjoy AND prepare,
Finding the balance that Dr. Kat taught them to dare.
So to all future doctors, home for the night,
Put down the flashcards, enjoy the tree lights.
And we heard Dr. Kat say, as she signed off her post—
"Happy holidays to all - be present with those you love most!"
