My Patient Said I Should Be a Professor

It all started when she asked where I was from. I picked up a marker and sketched a map of Africa in front of her. Within the map, I drew the outline of my native country, Ghana.

I enjoy doing this because I’ve realized that most of my patients—perhaps over 80%—don’t know the difference between Ghana and Guyana, a nation in South America. Many also don’t know that Africa is a continent like North America or South America. They think Africa is a single country. I am always amazed by that assumption. 

Taking the time to draw the map of Africa, I explained that there are over 50 independent countries on the continent. I touched on Europe, Asia, Oceania, the North and South Poles, and briefly spoke about the Americas. I told her how New Zealand is always the first nation on earth to see daylight. She didn’t know that. She was amazed. Before I left her room, she told me she had a newfound respect for me and said I should be an educator. She added that, besides being a good clinician, I should consider becoming a professor. for I explained everything so well and clearly to understand. I've heard that a lot.

I share this with you so that if you are new to this blog, you’ll understand why I am a chronicler. I love learning and I love to share things I have learned in a form of education here with you. Feel free to ask me questions about healthcare and I will be happy to respond to you.

I remain your pal,
Ronnie

Patience as a Virtue: A Piece on My Patient's Remarks

 

Just yesterday, a patient shared a kind remark that stayed with me, and I felt it was worth writing about and sharing with you. The patient noticed the time I spent with her, patiently answering all her questions and concerns with reassurance, and mentioned how unusual it was. She thanked me with a deep sense of appreciation, and that gesture lingered with me throughout the day. She observed that most of us clinicians move through our unscripted tasks at lightning speed. That extra attention I gave her stood out, prompting her to voice her gratitude. Her comment made me reflect on the value of patience—not just in caregiving but in life as a whole.

One of the things I have learned over the years on the job is that human beings are highly intelligent and observant, no matter their state of health. Some of us have the habit of treating sick people as if they don’t matter much and are burdens to bear over the course of our shifts. That is wrong on all levels. There is no time a human being feels more vulnerable than when their health is compromised, and they find themselves in a hospital or healthcare environment. The fear and uncertainty alone are enough to bring someone down health-wise, and that is when we need to have time and patience to help alleviate their fears and anxieties.

On being impatient—we now live in a time where the word patience feels almost meaningless. I am sure our younger generation doesn’t know what it means, let alone understand delayed gratification. We order things from the comfort of our homes on Amazon and expect them delivered to our doorsteps the next morning, or even, in some places, the same day. How does that shape our mindset and even our ethics or morals as consumers? Think about it, somebody somewhere is paying a big price for our instantaneous consumption.

Let’s talk about food. Our food, which is supposed to nourish the body and requires time to cook, is often thrown into a microwave and consumed at the speed of light. You can also think about fast food. Fast food might be quick, but nutritionally, there’s often nothing to write home about as far as the body's needs are concerned. And what does that do to our health and well-being?

At our core are relationships. These relationships, which need time to mature, are often rushed through with swipes left and right on apps, often discarding meaningful human connections. What effect does that have on our relationships with each other? No wonder the Bible specifically states that patience is a virtue and a gift of the Holy Spirit.

We must, in all the things that make us human, develop patience, especially for one another and in our relationships.

Please don’t think I’m preaching; far from it, for I have my own moments of impatience too. Patience, however, is not always easy, and it often requires time. I pray we have the discipline to exercise patience, despite the forces making it seem impossible to do so.

God bless you!
I remain your pal,
Ronnie

Happy Thanksgiving 2024!

Today, families across America gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, a cherished day marked by gratitude, togetherness, and the tradition of enjoying turkey, the centerpiece of the feast.

Personally, I find my heart overflowing with thankfulness. I have a long list of blessings to count: first and foremost, gratitude to God for His unfailing goodness, my loving family, and the supportive friends who stand by me. While Thanksgiving highlights the importance of expressing gratitude, I make it a point to thank God every single day for His grace in my life.

My hope for you today is that you, too, can find countless reasons to be grateful, whether big or small. May your day be filled with love, joy, and the warmth of those around you.

God bless you, and Happy Thanksgiving! 

Pal Ronnie

🦃🍂🙏

The Trouble with Belly Fats: Why It’s Dangerous and Foods That Help Burn It

Today, I want to talk about something different. As many of you know, I work in healthcare, and diet is directly correlated with health. One is meaningless without the other. It's no wonder that poor diet is the number one cause of chronic diseases in America and around the world.

Having worked in different zip codes, I can tell you firsthand that areas with an abundance of fast food chains compared to those without are like night and day when it comes to chronic diseases. Even if I had read this in a book, I might not have believed it, but my experience has shown me the reality.

I speak from what I've seen, I don’t add or subtract. I simply state the facts.

So the subject matter today is belly fats. Excess belly fat is more than just a cosmetic concern, it’s a serious health risk. Visceral fat, the type that accumulates around the abdomen, has been linked to a host of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and liver issues. This is a personal observation at work for years.

Fortunately, making smart dietary choices can help combat this stubborn fat. Below are the top six (6) foods that can support fat loss and improve overall health:  

Sauerkraut 🥬 

This probiotic-rich food enhances gut health and supports liver function, which plays a key role in metabolizing fat. Its fermentation process provides beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and weight management.  

Eggs 🍳

Eggs are high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making them a great addition to a fat-burning diet. Their protein content helps boost metabolism and maintain muscle mass, while supporting liver health for efficient fat processing.  

Salmon 🐟

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which improve insulin sensitivity and reduce cortisol levels—both critical factors in managing belly fat. It’s also an excellent source of lean protein to keep you full and energized.  

Cruciferous Vegetables  🥦 

Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are nutrient-dense and rich in fiber. They lower cortisol levels and promote liver health, aiding in the breakdown and elimination of fat.  

 Avocado  🥑 

Avocados are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and contain avocatin B, a compound that improves insulin sensitivity. With their low carbohydrate content, they’re a smart choice for reducing belly fat and keeping you satiated.  

Sprouts  🥦 

These sprouts are high in sulforaphane, a compound that has been shown to reduce visceral and liver fat. Adding broccoli sprouts to your meals can help support fat-burning processes while offering a variety of other health benefits.  

So incorporating these foods into your diet can be a game-changer for burning belly fat and improving overall health. Pair them with regular exercise and a balanced lifestyle for the best results. By choosing nutrient-dense, fat-fighting foods, you can take significant steps toward a healthier body.  

Let's go burn out those fats and live healthy and happy lives.

I remain you pal,

Ronnie

Christ is King🤴

 

Today is "Christ the King" Sunday, a day to celebrate the reign of the True King of God's Kingdom where we all aspire to belong and not any earthly kingdoms that come and go.

When I lived in Sunyani, Ghana, my parish was "Christ the King Cathedral." In the Catholic Church, a cathedral is the parish of the bishop, symbolizing the unity of the faithful under Christ's leadership headed by the bishop. 

This day was always marked by a grand celebration, filled with joy and reverence for our King.  

Christ is King🤴 

 Jesus Christ, Yeshua, is Lord

Happy Christ the King Sunday!

God bless you 

I remain your pal 

Ronnie 

Mr. Trump Named Pam Bondi As A Replacement of Matt Gaetz As Attorney General

It came to light yesterday that Pam Bondi has stepped in to replace the controversial Matt Gaetz as the nominee for a key legal role, a move that appears logical given her experience as a former Florida’s attorney general. Her legal background positions her well for the challenges of such a significant appointment.  

For Gaetz, the story takes a different turn. While his credentials as a lawyer and congressman might have made him a strong candidate, his nomination faced insurmountable hurdles. Allegations of past sexual misconduct have cast a shadow over his career, creating a political spectacle that would have likely derailed any Senate confirmation process.  

It’s worth noting that Gaetz, a first-term congressman from Florida and a vocal supporter of former President Trump, has been no stranger to controversy. His departure from both Congress and now this nomination suggests a strategic decision to avoid further distractions and allow the focus to shift elsewhere.  

This pattern is all too familiar in politics—high-profile figures often find their past scrutinized intensely when ascending to prominent roles. Whether the allegations against Mr. Gaetz are true or politically motivated remains uncertain, but the implications are clear: they have significantly impacted his career trajectory.  

As for Ms. Bondi, her appointment brings a sense of stability and expertise to the position. Meanwhile, one can only hope that Gaetz finds resolution to his legal troubles and peace moving forward.  

God bless, and until next time, I remain your pal, Ronnie

Jesus Wept Over Jerusalem: Meaning Over You and I

In today’s Gospel, Jesus gazes upon Jerusalem and weeps. I don’t remember weeping much, but the few times I did, it was for love. It’s impossible to live and love others without experiencing pain or sorrow, and without weeping for something so dear when it is in jeopardy. Jesus’ sorrow is palpable, a lamentation born from love. He will go on to die in the same city of Jerusalem because of the love He has for humanity. Oh Jerusalem!

He sees a city blind to what makes for peace, deaf to the voice of God that calls it to conversion and renewal. Jesus foresees destruction—a tragedy rooted not in God's will but in humanity’s refusal to recognize the time of its visitation.

The reflection calls us to look at our own lives in 2024. Have we, like Jerusalem, failed to see the opportunities for peace and grace that God offers us daily? Have we grown so busy, distracted, or hardened by the trials of everyday life that we no longer hear His still, small voice calling us to reconciliation, love, and a deeper trust in Him?

When I think of my own journey, one from a small farming village in Ghana, nurtured by the faith of my grandfather, to navigating the challenges of life in New York, I am struck by how often God visits us in unexpected ways. His visitation is not always in grand, miraculous moments we might expect, but in the quiet, persistent invitations to love, serve, and grow. Yet how easy it is to miss those moments when we are consumed by the pressures of daily life.

As I travel now for work, I’ve experienced firsthand the "palisades" of modern life: stressful work environments, fractured communities, loneliness, and personal struggles like addictions. These can enclose us, threatening to crush our hope and blind us to the blessings that surround us. Reflecting on my work this past year, I now recall moments of exhaustion and frustration beyond measure. But I also recognize the quiet visits from God: the smile of a grateful patient, the support of colleagues, the warmth of strangers on the street, love from a supporting family, and the strength to persevere another day. These are small stones of grace amidst the rubble of daily challenges. We must try not to overlook those.

Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem is not just about a city; far from it, it is about all of us. It is about every moment when we fail to recognize that God is with us, seeking to guide us toward peace, and when we fail to recognize how much God loves us. We cannot change the past, but we can choose today to open our eyes to His divine presence.

Let us ask ourselves: What "palisades" are we building that keep God out of our lives? Is it pride, resentment, or just the same old fear and greed? And what would it take to tear them down and welcome His peace and love?

May this Gospel today remind us to pause and reflect. Let us not wait until it is too late to recognize the time of our visitation. God is here, now, inviting us to trust Him, embrace His peace, and live lives of love and compassion.

May we all, like Jesus, look upon the world with eyes of love and work to bring His peace to all we encounter. Amen.

I remain your pal,

Ronnie 

A Rainy Day Turned Productive Eastern Long Island 🏝

 

It was a rainy morning on the island, and I woke to the surprising news that work had been canceled. What a blessing in disguise! Instead of battling the dreary weather indoors, I stayed home and used the day to complete all my annual workforce learning modules—an assignment coming due on December 1st. If you’re anything like me, you know the relief of avoiding nagging emails and text messages as reminders about unfinished tasks.  

With that chore crossed off my list, I decided to venture out in the afternoon to a place I have never been before. My trusty road master carried me east to a charming town called Bellport in Brookhaven. Small and quaint, it was the perfect destination for a rainy day. My goal was to visit their local popular destination and it turned out to be a library, a place I always hold close to my heart. 

My connection with libraries has always been special, and this visit was no exception. While there, I also struck up a lovely conversation with one of the librarians, who turned out to be a retired first-grade teacher. She was kind and personable, and I couldn’t help but marvel at her patience and time talking to me, something she must have developed and perfected during her teaching years. Don't forget I'm also all about talking to strangers. There is something very special about that-try it.

 But as the librarian returned to her desk, she said something that stayed with me. “I have no idea where you came from,” she remarked, “but the funny thing is, I just felt very comfortable talking to you, as if we’ve known each other for a long time.”

I expressed the same sentiment and added, “That’s what I like, and it’s something I encourage my readers to practice—the art of talking to people.” It pains me deeply to see people not engaging with one another, instead buried in their smartphones. These devices are eroding our civilization, disconnecting us in ways we have never seen before.

We can no longer tolerate each other; we don’t even know how to talk to one another anymore. Eye contact, one of the most human aspects of communication, is disappearing. When we don’t look into each other’s eyes, we lose an essential part of understanding and connection. That, to me, is tragic.

After our chat, I settled in to read the “Wall Street Journal” front to back, and a chapter on U.S. foreign policy from a book by  Prof. John Mearsheimer, while immersing myself in the quiet, studious atmosphere of the library. Once done, I headed to the store for a few items, feeling accomplished and at peace.  

Despite the rain, it turned out to be a wonderful day filled with productivity, exploration, and meaningful interactions. I hope your day was just as fulfilling wherever you were.  

God bless you,  

Yours pal,  

Ronnie Law  

The Fall of Mainstream Media

I vividly remember buying a small battery-powered radio after high school. How convenient it was, and it turned out to be one of my favorite possessions at the time. 

I didn’t grow up with a television, which might explain why I still don’t enjoy watching it today. I would much rather pick up a newspaper or a book than sit down in front of a TV. The point is, I have always felt, like many, a deep need for information, as vital to me as the oxygen my body requires.  

There was a time when I lived in a big town in Ghana, and back then, newspapers were the primary source of news. Social media didn’t exist. I made friends with the lady who sold newspapers—not because I couldn’t afford them, as they cost next to nothing, but because I didn’t want to keep buying them every day. Instead, I would visit her newspaper stand every morning to read the latest headlines and more. She was very kind by letting me do so. Looking back now, it feels like an ancient practice, and it brings a smile to me.  

The way we consume information these days has changed so rapidly that it’s almost overwhelming. The pace of this transformation is faster than we can fully comprehend or adapt to. But maybe that’s the whole point: to just go with the flow.  

These are my first-hand experiences, and they serve as a reminder of how much has shifted in such a short span of time. From holding a newspaper in my hands to scrolling through endless feeds, or listening to podcasts while driving or at the gym, the evolution of how we stay informed is nothing short of remarkable. And now, let’s delve into the death of mainstream media—a postmortem.  

Information, as stated above, is as essential to human survival as food, water, and oxygen. Throughout history, media outlets, whether through print, radio, television, or the more recent wave of podcasts, have served as critical tools for disseminating information and, at times, exercising control over us—the masses. The profound influence of the media has been evident for decades, but the extent of its power became glaringly apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic.  

At the height of the pandemic, public health officials, and even the former Governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, delivered daily press briefings that captivated audiences around the nation and beyond, particularly senior citizens at home or in nursing homes. I mention that demographic because they are still a significant chunk of TV viewers today. People tuned in religiously, glued to screens in an atmosphere of palpable fear. The sheer influence of those briefings highlighted how the media can shape perceptions and behaviors. Any entity wielding such power is ripe for manipulation and abuse, a reality that has only become more evident in recent years.  

What happened?

The decline of mainstream media has been a gradual process, but many trace its acceleration to the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Donald Trump’s presidency, polarizing as it was, laid bare long-standing issues within the media, from biased reporting to outright misinformation. Viewers began to question the integrity of outlets they once trusted.  

By the 2024 election, the disillusionment was undeniable. Following Trump’s re-election, reports emerged that major networks like MSNBC, ABC, and CNN experienced a staggering drop in viewership—some by as much as 50%. In any other industry, such a decline would trigger urgent calls for restructuring. Yet the question remains: Have people lost interest in news altogether?  

The answer is a resounding no. Us humans have an intrinsic need for information, as fundamental as the need for sustenance. The real issue lies in the perceived dishonesty of these media outlets. The level of fear, lies, and manipulation is becoming obvious to everyone. For years, mainstream media relied on sensationalism, bias, and occasionally false narratives to maintain total control over their audiences. When people realized they had been misled, many walked away, seeking alternative sources of information.  

The exodus from mainstream media is also generational. Younger audiences were never loyal to traditional TV news. They grew up with mobile devices and social media. That is why instead, they gravitated toward social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Tiktok for their information. Mainstream outlets attempted to discredit these platforms, accusing them of spreading dis/ or misinformation, but they failed to win over the younger viewers—and they continued to decline.  

This shift gave rise to independent media and podcasts, which have seen explosive growth. Figures like Bill O’Reilly, Glenn Beck, Tucker Carlson, and others who left mainstream networks have built their own platforms, bringing their loyal audiences with them. For example, Megyn Kelly who was at Fox, NBC, and now an independent podcaster now boasts over 3 million subscribers on YouTube, while Candace Owens from Prager, to Daily Wire and now an independent media, also commands an impressive 3.11 million followers and growing.  

These people have earned the trust of their viewers. Unlike traditional networks, their viewers get to interact with their host and with each other in the comments section. Joe Rogan, arguably the king of independent media and podcasts, has a staggering 18 million plus subscribers, with episodes garnering tens of millions of views. His most recent interview with Trump, leading up to the elections, has amassed over 45 million views within 48 hours, exemplifying the unparalleled reach of independent media. Throughout his presidential campaigns, Trump has only sat down with podcasters, and his messages have been spread far and wide.  

Independent media thrives because it offers something mainstream outlets often lack: authenticity. They welcome raw footage with zero edits and are highly interactive. These platforms provide unfiltered perspectives, attracting viewers disillusioned by traditional news altogether. This shift represents a democratization of information, where individuals are no longer reliant on centralized, corporate-controlled outlets.  

For Mr. Trump, independent media has been a boon. Unlike his predecessors, he has bypassed traditional networks, waging all out war on them since 2016 and leveraging podcasts and social media to connect directly with his base. In his first term, we saw him tweeting nonstop from the Oval. Definitely new and unconventional but it worked for him and of course, the mainstream media lost it. This strategy has further marginalized them, leaving them struggling to remain relevant.  

Now what?

Despite its decline, mainstream media is unlikely to disappear. Trump’s contentious relationship with the press ensures that they will continue to report aggressively on his upcoming administration, catering to the segment of the population that absolutely abhors and opposes him. I strongly believe that, deep down though, some of these media outlets preferred him in office to Ms. Harris. They knew a controversial Trump would be good for their business. Controversy, after all, drives ratings.  

As for the president-elect, his leadership style, deeply rooted in business pragmatism rather than political convention, will undoubtedly ruffle feathers in DC. His aversion to bureaucracy and preference for swift deal-making often clash with the slow, deliberative nature of government. He might get things easier this time as his government is in control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. While this approach has its merits, it also leaves room for missteps. The lesson is that bureaucracy has its place.  

Regardless of one’s political leanings, it is in everyone’s interest for America to thrive under this new leadership of Trump. When the U.S. prospers, the world benefits.  

The evolution of media reflects broader societal shifts. From the dominance of traditional outlets to the rise of independent platforms, the way we consume information is changing rapidly. Trust remains the cornerstone of this transition. As audiences continue to seek honesty and authenticity, the future of media will be shaped not by institutions but by individuals who prioritize truth over influence.  

Let us hope for a media landscape that informs rather than manipulates—a world where information, likened to the essentials of life, sustains rather than controls us.  

I hope this provoked your thoughts about media and information. If so, mission accomplished.  

I remain your pal,  

Ronnie

Zacchaeus Come Down

Today's Gospel is one of my favorite stories in the Bible. The story of Zacchaeus, found in (Luke 19:1-10), is a beautiful narrative of grace and transformation. As Jesus passes through Jericho, Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector (the IRS Director) of our time, and a wealthy man, climbs a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of Him. He was a short man in stature accordingly and because he was hated for the exploitations in taxes, he was perhaps isolated. Zacchaeus was definitely an outsider, despised by his community for his role as a tax collector, a collaborator with the Roman oppressors, notorious for corruption and greed. When IRS agents come hard on us for unpaid taxes, imagine how we feel about that. I'm just trying to walk in the shoes of these people in the days of Zacchaeus and how people like him made them feel. 

Yet, as Jesus reached the spot, He looked up and said, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." This simple yet profound statement reveals the heart of the Gospel: no one is beyond God’s reach, and His invitation is extended to all. How comforting ? Our hearts might just be Zacchues in this story.

I digress, I just couldn't help but draw the parallels of Jesus and the IRS Agent (Zachaues). Most of us have surely been given anxiety when we hear the name IRS especially when we fail to get our taxes in order. Now we understand how the people felt about the man Jesus stated He was going to spend His evening at his house. 

Imagine today’s equivalent: Jesus walking into the town we live and announcing He is going to wine and dine with an IRS agent, a person many might associate with as a bureaucrat, audit, exploiter, and financial stressor. Like Zacchaeus, IRS agents are often viewed with skepticism or outright hostility. People might grumble, "Why would Jesus choose to spend time with them? Aren’t there more deserving individuals?"  

But Jesus doesn’t look at status, reputation, or public opinion. He looks at the heart. He knows that Zacchaeus or our modern equivalent IRS agent is more than their job or their past mistakes. Jesus sees their potential for transformation. It could also be that Zacchaeus, despite his material success, felt he was missing something profound in his life-the Eternal Word Himself -Jesus Christ. 

The Call to “Come Down”, Jesus' invitation to Zacchaeus begins with two powerful words: “Come down.”Zacchaeus was perched above the crowd, separated physically and metaphorically from those around him. His position in the tree reflects how he has lived his life—far removed, isolated, and distanced by his choices and the judgment of others. I'm sure most of us have been around people wildly successful by virtue of our worldly standards. Only God knows the kind of mental barrier that exists between us when we are with such individuals. The “us versus them” mentality is all too real. 

For us though, the call to “come down” might mean stepping away from pride, self-sufficiency, or the walls we build to protect ourselves from vulnerability. Also mostly from life of darkness to light- Jesus. Jesus meets us where we are, but He invites us to come closer, to step into community, and to open our hearts to His presence. This is how I see it when I'm in church. During communion, we vacate our seats and step closer to the source of life Himself at the altar. It's like our own version of “come down”. 

I thought it was a profound moment of Grace for this chief tax collector.When Jesus dined with Zacchaeus, it was a radical act of grace. In the eyes of the people, Zacchaeus is a sinner, unworthy of such attention. But Jesus doesn’t wait for Zacchaeus to clean up his life or prove his worthiness. Instead, His presence in Zacchaeus’ home catalyzes a change that no human can comprehend. This can be true for us too. 

Grace works the same way today. Jesus doesn’t wait for us to be perfect before He enters our lives. His love is the starting point, not the reward for good behavior. The transformation of Zacchaeus, his decision to give half of his wealth to the poor and repay those he cheated fourfold flows from encountering Jesus' unconditional acceptance of him as a sinner.  

 

Now we may wonder, what does all this mean for us? Are there people we judge as unworthy of grace, like the crowd judged Zacchaeus? How can we, like Jesus, extend love and dignity to those society looks down upon? The marginalized among us in society? Our labels of others as second class citizens, permanent underclass etc. Do we feel unworthy of Jesus’ attention, like Zacchaeus might have? His invitation to “come down” is for each of us, no matter our past failures or sins.  

Zacchaeus responded to grace with action. How do we respond to the grace we’ve received?

  

In my own reflection, if Jesus were to pass through our towns today, He might surprise us by choosing to dine with the most hated IRS guy, the corporate executive accused of greed, or the person we least expect. But His actions remind us that no one is beyond redemption. Yes, redemption. 

Let us hear His call to “come down”, to step away from whatever separates us from God and others and to joyfully welcome Him into our hearts and lives. Like Zacchaeus, we will find that His presence transforms us, enabling us to live with generosity, justice, and love. Amen.  

I remain your pal, 

Ronnie