Chapter 1: The Dilemma of Choices

Have you ever faced a choice between two paths? One may seem advantageous in the short term but is not the right decision, while the other, though it may bring temporary pain or setbacks, is the morally correct option. My advice? Always choose the right path, even if it causes discomfort. Ultimately, you will reap the rewards.

During my final year in college, a friend sought financial help for his medical school applications. While $200 wasn't a huge amount, for a student from humble beginnings, it was significant. I realized that by lending him the money, he would be able to apply to medical school, which meant one less application for me. However, doing so also risked my own chances of acceptance. Logically, it didn't make sense, yet I felt a pang of selfishness. In that moment, I irrationally regarded him as competition rather than a friend. We had shared countless laughs and study sessions, yet I momentarily saw him as an adversary. I hesitated, thinking that denying him the funds might improve my odds of admission. The internal struggle was intense, reminiscent of a scene from "Animal House," where a character wrestles with his conscience.

Ultimately, I chose to listen to my better judgment. The next day, I gave him the money. As fate would have it, he was accepted into medical school the following year, while I faced three challenging years of applications and reapplications. In the end, we both succeeded, albeit on different timelines.

In college, I earned a chemistry degree and followed a pre-med path, volunteering as a lab assistant and researching red blood cell membrane proteins to enhance my medical school applications. To support myself, I worked at a local supermarket, initially feeling embarrassed about my job. However, a friend reminded me that there is dignity in any work. Over two and a half years, I bagged groceries and stocked shelves.

One night, I encountered a classmate I had a crush on while bagging her groceries. Her shocked expression spoke volumes; it felt as though she questioned my college experience. I worked diligently at the supermarket, watching others advance while I remained in my position, earning $7 an hour. At family gatherings, I heard relatives mockingly point out my situation, which stung deeply, especially coming from someone I admired. Self-doubt crept in, making me question my future in medicine.

Then, one July evening, I bumped into another college friend, Tom, who had also pursued a pre-med track. Though he initially faced rejection from medical school, he reapplied and was accepted. I shared my struggles with him, contemplating a shift to pharmacy or dental school. Tom encouraged me to apply one more time to medical school before giving up. His words sparked a glimmer of hope despite my financial worries from previous applications.

With a month left to apply for early decision—a special application process for students committed to one medical school—I took the plunge. Despite my previous rejections, I remained cautiously optimistic. When I received an invitation for an interview, it felt like a small victory. The interview went well, but I was hesitant to get my hopes up.

A month later, I received a large envelope from the medical school admissions office. In the past, my rejection letters had always arrived in small envelopes. As I opened it, my heart raced upon reading, "We are delighted to offer you..." I was accepted! Elation coursed through me as I celebrated with my family.

In the end, I gained admission to medical school, albeit later than I anticipated. My time at the supermarket cemented my passion for medicine and provided a humbling perspective on the importance of work. I learned to respect those who take on jobs out of necessity, understanding that many are striving to fulfill their dreams. The bagger, the barista, and the waiter are often in a transitional phase, working diligently towards their goals.

To those facing obstacles, remember that perseverance is key. The path may be challenging, but it's still there for you to pursue. There’s no shame in hard work.

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Chapter 2: The Gift of Resilience

This video, "Do Good Even When it Hurts - The Gospel Spreads Proactively & Reactively," explores the importance of integrity in our actions, especially when faced with difficult choices.

Chapter 3: Finding Strength in Adversity

The second video, "Even When It Hurts (Praise Song) Live - Hillsong UNITED," serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in faith and perseverance during tough times.