1/30/2026

After her treatment today, as my patient was about to leave, I said, “Come here,” and gave her a big hug. “Please take good care of yourself. Why is it so hard to wake you up to that?”

She suddenly burst into tears, her voice trembling with hurt. “I thought… I thought Dr. Tsai didn’t want to see me anymore.”

My heart tightened. I held her close, patting her gently. “Silly girl. Why would you think that? I’ve always been here.” If anything, I felt guilty that she had to accept my schedule—my twice‑a‑year trips back to Taiwan.

I realized then: When we truly care about someone, we become cautious, afraid of losing the connection. If I hadn’t reached out to her this week, two souls who resonate so closely might have quietly drifted apart.

But reality is often kinder than we imagine. Life asks us for a little more courage—to see things clearly, to not leave regrets behind.

For the friends we hold sincerely in our hearts, there is no real “missing” or “losing.” I am always here, quietly thinking of you, wishing you well. Whatever hardships life brings, you are not alone. Please keep going.