A Milestone…Again?

I still remember how I felt the first time my picture and byline appeared in black and white alongside a piece I’d written for our Temple City Chamber monthly edition. It was exciting; but it was a little scary too.

When the opportunity came up, I jumped at the chance to write a column. But after thinking about it for a while, I kind of flinched at the prospect. It was a little like having a clear mental picture of your golf swing and then watching a video that shows exactly what it really looks like…right in front of friends and family and maybe even a few ex-girlfriends. And it’s now been over twenty years and I don’t think I’ve missed over twenty weeks writing something somewhere on a variety of stuff.

And I bet you’re wondering how a dentist could possibly come up with content every week for 20-freakin years?

Thing is, my life has changed a lot over the last 20-years and so has dentistry...and just about everything else. But I’m proud that through it all I’ve retained my curiosity, a healthy dose of immaturity and (for the most part) my sanity.

And this is starting to sound like I’m getting ready to hit the golf course, spin class, and Pasadena afternoon tea parties and, ugh, retire but…no way; seems like I’m just getting started. Who wants to read about someone who wakes up every day at about 4AM to do stuff like play bridge (don’t know how) and chase kids off his lawn (don’t have a lawn)?

For the last 20-years, I’ve done serious graduate work in clinical dentistry, communication, systems, family, and love. Writing has given me a platform from which to share information and enthusiasm; it’s at once given me an opportunity to hopefully convey reassurance and support for those potentially scary trips to the dentist. Most certainly, writing and working with an amazing team has provided me the family I miss so much along with the therapy I never had (especially after the Trojans’ loss to the Longhorns in the 2006 Rose Bowl.)

So, here’s the thing; after 40-years of my family serving you and your friends and family, we’ve expanded; I’m publishing my third book. We’re performing and learning beyond the next level and there’s no end to that process in sight.

Our intention has long been making a difference for all who honor us with their trust and making the journey fun while we’re at it. And it’s never been more fun (at least, for me.)

So, there’s one trait that helps someone write about dentistry, healthcare, the Trojans and virtual interviews conducted across the street at El Pollo Loco every week for some 20-years. And readers, you’re right; it’s you. Thanks for indulging a guy who can’t stop talking in print.

Love Temple City. Love you guys. Love being here…at our happy Temple City Dental Care home away from home.