“It ain’t what they call you, it’s what you answer to.” –W.C. Fields, American comedian, actor and writer
I noticed a post on Facebook yesterday (I know, my wife gives me “that look” on my brief attempt to go cold turkey with my FB addiction) that suggested we needed to seriously consider splitting our profession of chiropractor into two groups. Those who “are” and those who “are not”.
Seems like unity just isn’t working any longer, if it ever did that is. At least within chiropractic. My Facebook friend is convinced that those who don’t want to practice chiropractic should immediately depart and create a profession that incorporates whatever “they” want to do. Seems reasonable, however here lies the challenge. Who draws the line? By who’s yardstick do we determine who is “right” and who is “left”, or “wrong” if you want to use that word.
What do we answer to? When the public refers to one of us as a chiropractor…what is our answer? How do we respond in the language that really matters, i.e. what we do and what we deliver?
I agree that the public is confused…though probably not as confused as we are. I also agree that clarity in who we are, what we answer to and finally…what we deliver, is very important. Perhaps the best thing is to attempt an amicable divorce….but the stubborn part of me resists that extreme. Something tells me that the mature way to deal with this is to stand ground and allow the process to percolate out those who really do not care to be called….a chiropractor.
Fear is very present. Fear that we will lose what we have. Fear that there are those among us who do not value our distinction enough to maintain our identity as drug-less and surgery-free answer to the confused public. Perhaps that fear is real. However as real as it is, I do not think the answer is continuing inner conflict. Meaningful communication, yes, however fear induced warfare…how can that be helpful?
It does not matter what people call me…it matters what I answer to and identify with.
I am a chiropractor. I am a refreshing release from the fear that attempts to pollute a body unnecessarily with chemicals or carve out portions deemed unworthy. I will stand out and be a beacon to those seeking that difference if I remain clear on who I am and if I continue to do my best to remain free from the fear-charged fray.
Stand quietly on principle. Within this clear and quiet space is found the power and strength to stay the course. From this stillness will emanate clear and effective action when action is required. Fear only detracts from this power.
I am reminded of the words of David Hawkins, MD in his book Power vs. Force. “We change the world not by what we say or do, but as a consequence of what we have become.”
Power is in the “I AM”…not the fight.
IN-JOY your quiet and powerful knowing today,
Perry
Dr. Chinn is a 1986 Life graduate Seattle area for 26 years and is a board member of the Gonstead Clinical Studies Society. He is the co-creator of the nutritional cardiovascular formula Acctrix (www.Acctrix.com) available at Amazon, co-founder of Unisal Wellness Technologies and is the author of Symphony of Wellness and Soaring Beyond Fear ( www.PerryChinn.com). His book Symphony of Wellness focuses on the science and benefits of the Nobel Prize winning science of nitric oxide for cardiovascular health and whole body wellness. He can be reached at DrPChinn@gmail.com
Dr. Chinn is a 1986 Life University graduate (Marietta), has been practicing for 37 years, currently in NW Montana. He has served as a board member and vice-president of the Gonstead Clinical Studies Society. As a Gonstead technique diplomate, Dr. Chinn is authorized to teach and coach the Gonstead system to other doctors of chiropractic. He is the author of Symphony of Wellness and Soaring Beyond Fear (www.PerryChinn.com), his book Symphony of Wellness (now in an expanded 3rd edition) focuses on the science and benefits of the Nobel Prize winning science of nitric oxide for cardiovascular health and whole body wellness. He is available for keynote speaking and coaching. Dr. Chinn can be reached at DrPChinn@gmail.com