Well my dear NYC podiatry patients, we’ve done it once again.  By the time you read this it will be either the waning last few gasps of 2018, or the infancy of 2019.  Either way it’s time to celebrate, reflect, and maybe plan.  If I can be so bold, thought we might just have a chat, you and me and a few friends, on what we’ve accomplished and what lies ahead, and some ways to maximize our potential for the coming year and beyond. 

So it’s been an interesting year, as it always is. The political scene and those who control the conversation remain volatile, the economy is unstable at best, the hotspots of the world are still hot, and US healthcare is still mind boggling and generally inadequate- save for the hardworking folks who are dedicated to providing the best care in the world. As your NYC podiatrist I remain grateful and hopeful.  Grateful for the little accomplishments, and the most important treasures of life that transcend material value- health, happiness and family, and hopeful for the promise of the future and the potential to grow.  I can’t singlehandedly affect a political revolution of any kind, solve the healthcare woes, or fix the economy, but I can encourage small victories. 

My advice is as follows: Wake up with a grateful smile every day. Put on a pair of comfortable shoes (with custom orthotics, of course). Walk or bike to work. Smile at a stranger- well maybe not in NYC, it is generally interpreted as more suspicious rather than friendly. Don’t smoke. Spend a little more time with family and friends.  Grow a little every day personally, mentally and spiritually in whatever way works. Think about the day at the end of the day and look forward to the next day as each one counts. As my Allman brother said: can’t let one precious day slip by. 

And that’s it for now.  Have to get ready for the @Phish New Year’s run at the Garden (those who know, know).  Be excellent to each other, and remember to visit your friendly local neighborhood podiatrist once in a while.  And whatever you do, take care of your shoes.

See you in the office. 

Ernest Isaacson