“See what no one else sees. See what everyone chooses not to see… out of fear, conformity or laziness. See the whole world anew each day!”
– Arthur Mendelson (Patch Adams)
Every time I watch the movie Patch Adams it makes me sad that Robin Williams is no longer with us. That man was a gift to society and his story was over too soon. It is fortunate that his work lives on and that there are still lessons to be learned and inspiration to be drawn from his many different works.
Patch Adams is not my most favorite of his work, but it is near the top. Though plenty of artistic licenses were taken with this one, it is still based on a real Doctor and medical practice that was different. That is part of the reason I think I find it so inspirational. It is a shining example that no matter what the problem, there is always another approach that can be just as good, if not better.
I love how Patch Adams put value into the quality of life. I feel like doctors (at least in the past) were so focused on being the best that they lost sight of other purposes of their profession. Ego has no place in a room with someone suffering and Patch’s outlook was beautiful.
He was criticized and those whose arcane practices he “threatened,” but it is his attitude that I most appreciate. His devotion to being a positive force for those in need. His commitment to improving the situation for everyone around him. Most importantly, it was his unconditional love for humanity that is worthy of admiration and emulation.
Journeyman's Legacy 