EXCERPT FROM: The Wayward Diagnostician (working title)

  Dedications:

  To my father, the beacon of my ideals and my unmoving voice of reason, I present myself with honesty. Between us, there have been too many words left unsaid, too much forgiveness left unsought. I hope the words hereafter would bring you peace that what you had given had been enough.

  To my mother, the watchful and merciful keeper of truth and wisdom, I sing my gratitude. You know me better than any of your patients, a thought that both worries and heartens me in equal measure. May your wit and limitless empathy ever bring comfort and a sense of direction to those who seek your light.

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  To my brother, so much more than a model to measure myself by, I put my hands together in admiration. Because you were always a step ahead of me, I was able to march ever forward with courage and conviction. I hope one day to stand with you side by side and look upon all that we accomplished together.

  To my sister, the truest friend anyone could ask for, I pledge my eternal companionship. Life's harshest challenges turn to fond memories with you in the frame. Here's to many more years of adventure and discovery, with your compassion and sense of wonder to brighten the path.

  To my wife, the stardust that deigned to grace my earthly life, I devote myself in totality. Not a day goes by that I don't thank all the deities in the known universe for guiding me to you. May the house we build together ever stand firm and be shone in warmth, wherever our journeys may take us.

  And for my daughter, my angel and star-flower, I transform myself into anything you need me to be. When the time comes for you to read the words I've imparted, and indeed as you write your own adventure, you will reckon with all the conflicting and confusing facts of life. But through it all, know this, that your father loves you and will do anything to protect you.