Bliss.

Bliss.

Wednesday, September 27, 2017

The Insomniac's Idiosyncrasies.

What if these thoughts are not my carefully coordinated ruminations but merely the result of random arrangements in my brain that resulted in these specific words, even as I type this?

When you overdose on caffeine and are charged with a hundred different thoughts, it is prudent to blog and scare the few readers away with your useless rambles.

So first things first, we had our Ortho Internals and I made up a lot of rubbish including the meaning of Orthopaedics (yes, we had a second paper for our practicals with many more opportunities for me to mess up). Atleast a TB Hip/ Spine would have made my day but CTEV was a small reprieve. And that reminds me, Ilizarov (from the limb lengthening technique) said something like this:

'Any biological organism when subjected to constant stress under living conditions, is expected to grow.'
I quote this not out of a bout of inspiration that if we induce ourselves with the right amount of stress, it would catapult us into greater heights (you could do that too, Fyi) but out of sheer annoyance and frustration with the supposed Imposition awarded to us by the OBG department for our unplanned 'mass bunk'. Clearly, subjecting us to irrational punishments has only got us at the end our patience and at our wit's end. -_-

But when I'm not mindlessly copying lines from Shaw's, we've been taking a lot more cases this term asking every Savitramma, Ratnamma, Basamma or Vasanthamma their history. When we're not taking gynaec cases, I'm discreetly judging women by their belly bump to pounce on any pregnancy in the 3rd trimester to take their case and possibly proceed with the examination. Apart from this, its a Cat and Mouse game of trying not to draw the attention of Dr S for sitting, breathing and basically daring to live. -_-

Apart from these facts and and the ominous fact that my going home remains dependant on the End Posting, college is progressing as usual. So it was Abhi's bday last week and we had a some real fun :) I don't think I've laughed until my stomach hurt in recent times!


I think the best time of my day is in fact the night when I'm uncluttered of all unnecessary niceties and have my freedom, even if, only for a few hours. Yes, of course, all these chains and shackles are in my own head.

Take a moment.
  • Before you yell at that boy for nearly running into you, take a moment to realize he's pushing a trolley of food for your own mess.
  • Before you assume the worst, give people the benefit of doubt or a chance to explain their actions.
  • Before you curse profanities upon someone for inconveniencing you, understand that they're only doing their job.
  • Before you give someone a piece of your mind, take a deep breath and just let it go! Whatever it is that's bothering you, it isn't worth your peace of mind. 

Reading some new and interesting things these days; from the development of language in an infant (Skinner Vs Chomsky), science of emotion (when you see a tiger, do you run because of the fear or do you feel fear because you run..?) and even the physiology of hunger and satiety (my obesity prone elevated leptins should have diminished taste sensations but as Abhi rightly said, my taste buds seem to be on the higher end of the spectrum) and the neurochemistry of addiction (mice which were taught to work for a stimulation that would result in a reward (Dopamine treaaattt!) would do so even at the cost of their starvation and thirst just to receive that 'kick'.

On yet another note, I would hate to agree with my annoyingly accurate father as to how social media is a double edged sword and must be used wisely and I never seem to accrue this simple wisdom that even my sister seems to have been bestowed with. -_-

Ohhhh and before I forget, Ma's part of this White Whale Challenge that's being organized by the folks at Science Utsav.
Basically, they've got the parent community involved in activities and tasks that they've got to submit in a day. While Day 1 had Ma going to the near and dear relatives for a 'free hug thing', Day 2 was about thanking the people in the community who help us like the milkmaid, postman, driver, lift attender and so on.

I'm actually quite surprised and interested by this initiative and also extremely happy that Ma is game enough to take on something as spontaenous as this! :)

Although I feel confused and annoyed 2826282927 times a day for all the mind numbing, thick skulled drama around me and the rubbish that is thurst upon my disinterested ears, I also feel at peace for atleast some semblance of sanity that prevails despite the murky waters. It also gives me hope of better times ahead.

*Everything has changed: Ed Sheeran* :)

Ciao!

Saturday, September 16, 2017

Perennial Pondering

Hello there readers,

Once again I have plenty on my mind but I'm quite tired to make sense. The past few weeks have been busy thanks to the internals and OBG.
Speaking of this posting, it looks like we got on the wrong side of our Professor at the start of postings and we've got to bear the brunt of a supposed mass bunk. But this term has also got me taking a lot more cases unlike last term where our attention to detail and attempt to follow up every case lead hampered our pace.

Medicine has got me worried because I have no idea how I cleared those internals and I hardly put in any reading for it specifically but maybe I'll need to rectify it asap. These days, I've got Ortho on my mind and there is a LOT to do but I don't know how much I'm actually going to remember. I'll prolli write manage with ORIF and K wires for half the questions and walk out like a boss. I also think I have some serious deficits in the way I read. Somehow, my approach seems to be more theoretical than practical oriented. Also, internal comparisons with anyone and everyone tend to send my spirits plummeting to the depths of despair.

On an other note, life often throws pleasant surprises your way when you least expect it such as an interesting coincidence.

On yet another unrelated note, people assume the importance that you place for them in your life. Nobody asks for it. It is you who is responsible.

Sometimes, the mere thought of what the future holds is quite scary. Of course, I often talk like eternal sunshine and daisies but when you start thinking about the realities, it seems an infinite abyss.

Songs I enjoy include
Bawara Mann (Jolly llb)
Into Dust by Mazza Star (heard in an episode of House MD)

So I had to address the juniors  a few days ago and this a script of the big day.


It all began symbolically on the 15th of August 2013 when I set foot on campus as a bright eyed first year student.

Respected dignitaries on the dias, teachers, parents and juniors, I'm here to share my journey so far and I thank the faculty and management for giving me this opportunity. 

Hearty congratulations to all of you for making it to medical college against all odds. From this day, a new journey begins.
When I joined medical college, I was bombarded with advice from all corners; the highlight being- Do not neglect your first year, it is your hardest! Now, it may seem redundant to state the same message, but from my own experience, it is always helpful to remain consistent through the year and get your basics clear. The foundation that you lay now will set the stage for the skyscrapers that you will build in future. 

Hostel life, in itself is a great teacher. I vividly remember the nights spend in the corridor studying osteology with bones in hand, the maggi parties that turned into long discussions on life and the countless birthdays that were celebrated.*
The friends you cultivate will decide the trajectory of your path. The constant stream of tests, internals and impending fear of exams can be very stressful but having a good set of friends is one of the best things that can happen to you. 

With a vast syllabus, new surroundings and unfamiliar faces around you, our teachers were approachable and friendly. From the first year Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry professors to the final year professors, they continue to inspire us to give our best. Be it a simple doubt, an intercollegiate quiz and a poster presentation at a conference, they are always willing and eager to help you- if you show the interest. 

On a lighter note, the college fest brings out the creativity, talent and sportsmanship of the students. The Cultural and Sports Week gives students a much needed break from the routine. 

Coming from a metropolitan area, I was initially unsettled in Shimoga but in time, I have begun to enjoy this well developed, unpolluted and peaceful city. It has given me plenty of opportunities to meet new people, visit nearby hill stations, beaches and waterfalls but for now, first year is not the time for sightseeing! :) 

Finally I'd like to conclude with a quote: Believe in the beauty of your dreams and do not stop until your goal is reached.**

Thank you

* so apparently just before my speech, Sir had mentioned how parties are strictly forbidden on campus so when I said birthday parties and maggi parties, there was a huge commotion with all students discussing excitedly about the supposed laxity of rules. After my speech, Sir clarified that I celebrated these parties at a low volume in the confines of my room to which I sarcastically nodded in agreement.

** Today some miserable junior struck up a conversation with us and I was interrogated if I was from Bangalore, my parents were from Bangalore, if I studied in Bangalore and where specifically and last but not the least, 'If it was my dream to join this college or I wanted to join a Bangalore college like BMCRI or MSRMC?' To which I could only reply that she could answer the question herself and left their annoying presence but with a can of worms unleashed in my rabid brain.

Coffee seems to be working like magic but not for the right reasons.

CME coming up in our college and preparations in full swing for the same.

Ciao fellow sapiens

Thursday, September 7, 2017

Delirious Doom

This may not be the smartest thing to do right now but I'll still do it anyway.

So we (Abhi and I) had been to the Paediatric Quiz of IAP at SIMS Govt. College on September 5th. The first round was an MCQ round and was fairly easy based on our prep from the relevant mcq books. The participants were from JNMC, SDMMC, AAMC, KIMS Hubli, BIMS, SNMC and SIMS. It was after we made it to the finals that the real test began. While the questions were case based and required specific answers, they were moderate to difficult in terms of level of ease. The team from SIMS stood first and will move to the state level quiz next. The Belgaum and Dharwad Team did exceptionally well while we were left behind after the initial dry spell. At long last, we reached the end of the quiz and managed to scramble a few points to climb out of the last spot.

Nevertheless, it was an experience none the less and it shows how much more is expected of us. While I am thankful for this 'enlightening' experience, it also brings forth the unpleasant reality of studying in a private college. Or perhaps its not always to do with where you are but what you make out of it, irrespective of the odds. There are always exceptions in either cases.
Apart from being looked down upon in the social circle and from your colleagues, you yourself begin to detest yourself for not matching up to the standards. Its probably justified but at the end of the day, you've somehow got to bridge the gap.

Adulting is no joke and I don't like the uncertainty that it brings along with the gift of freedom.

2nd September was one maddeningly hectic day. Reached Bangalore at 4AM amidst heavy rainfall, Dad had come to pick us up so Abhi, Accamma and I bundled up into the car and headed home where we snoozed for a while (until Bupp and Bm Shivu, our birds above) decided to sing and welcome us. After some initial running around to meet the Dermatologist (in vain) we headed home, finished other activities and finally set off towards Govi's house for the first time. As it happens, Govi's mother gave as an amazing intro into veg Andhra cuisine and we enjoyed our meal thoroughly.


At this point, I had to leave in the midst of the pouring rains (aided by Govi's brother) and managed to catch an auto towards an institute of importance. After goading the auto driver to take me as fast as possible across the city with promises of 'meter mele extra kodthini', I sat back and began to breathe. Finally, I made it in time and the next 2.5hrs were spent in discussion. We left after this and MaPaDi and I got ready at breakneck speed and again plowed through the traffic towards Airport Road for BP's Sister's wedding. After a sumptous meal and some photo sessions, MaPaDiMe and Namrata left towards home.

This one day showed me how notorious Bangalore's traffic is and how ill equipped our roads are to handle an evening of heavy rains. It just left me exhausted in many ways.

The next day was fairly uneventful. I took Accamma out on a Metro ride, we had our first waffle and then hitched an auto back home, packed up and left towards the railway station amidst fresh onset of showers.

Back in Shimo. Pharyngotonsilitis has given way to that hateful dry irritant cough that leaves me barking in the middle of a silent class or unable to stand in the OPD even as the cough refuses to subside. Internals upcoming. Stress has built a nice home for itself in the annals of my brain and its up to me to demolish or build a skyscraper.

Cya later Readers!