Just My Two Cents

Two scores and seven years ago, I set foot on American soilin order to pursue my Postgraduate medical training at New YorkUniversity Medical Center-Bellevue Hospital, New York City,New York. Now, looking back upon the vast time-span of the fivedecades gone by, I can hardly believe that our national landscape hasundergone a sea change. According to an old Oriental adage, 'EvenMother Nature changes in a decade’s time,' thus the inevitablechanges have turned at least five times over beyond recognition.America as we know it today is a drastically different countryfrom what we observed back in the 60’s: many a thing that wasacceptable back then is no longer even permissible, or downrightillegal. Indeed, it goes without saying that the last half a century hasbeen both tumultuous and cataclysmal in U.S. history.I have lived in Springfield, IL for 38 years since 1974 in aprofessional move from Honolulu, Hawaii and I became a U.S.citizen in 1976 when we celebrated the Bicentennial. I am still verygrateful to my adopted country for what she has done for me andmy family. My two children were born, raised and educated in thisblessed nation. Nothing gives me more pleasure and happiness thanto see them vigorously strive for their own professional careers.As we live in a diverse, pluralistic society, aptly called 'meltingpot' or 'tossed salad,' I, myself, am always determined to be anactive Player in the Great American Game of Life rather than beingan idle or passive spectator. For nearly quarter a century, whateversocial issues or subjects might come along to grab my attention, Ihaven’t hesitated to express my personal or professional opinion orviewpoint by writing to the Editor of newspapers, local and national,magazines, periodicals as well as professional journals. My lettersand communications number altogether a little over 120. Now, Ixxiicall them collectively, 'JUST MY TWO CENTS.' Most of themwere published in the respective media, and my reader’s responses,whether favorable or critical, are also included. If indicated, somereferences are provided for further elucidation.I am well aware that my voice is feeble or hardly audible likea 'voice in the wilderness.' Yet, I believe that I leave behind myfootprints on the Prairie that I have traversed thus far.This book would not have come into existence without the lovingand faithful support of my beloved wife, Young, who is always thesource of my strength. My special thanks go to Aimie Trussell andMs. Sara Barger who shared unselfishly their precious time withme in the preparation of the manuscript. I will always be grateful tothem for their generous help.February 20, 2012Chansoo Kim, M.D.