The currents

t. Riley Potter

MD class of 2025 Managing Editor

The early-morning sun reflected on red rocks a thousand feet above me as I moved from one side of the slot canyon to the next, cool from the mountain-spring water of the river. The river’s current pushed against me relentlessly as I hiked upstream. Rocks, likened to slippery bowling balls by many who traversed this path before me, moved as I took each step. There was no other way, no firm ground within sight. Just an unyielding river, walls of smooth rock to either side, and the dim morning light as a guide forward.

To try and walk directly against a strong current is often futile. It may work for the first few steps, but after a while, legs tire and spirits drain. If one can reimagine how to hike, however, and call on their adaptability to teach themselves anew in an unfamiliar environment, progress might just be possible. With walking-stick in hand, pointed downstream for stability, there was one tactic that could ensure a methodical, persistent path— moving sideways.

This was me a few short months ago while hiking an awe-inspiring, exhilarating trail through what is termed “The Narrows” of Zion National Park in Utah. There is no other choice but to traverse the river, often wading through waistdeep water. I highlight this scenario as it is a good metaphor for medicine, medical school, and our world. There are so many challenges in our lives and while tackling them “head on” may be tempting, a more nuanced approach is often necessary. By “moving sideways,” as is the theme of this issue of Black Diamonds, we can see our world in new ways and identify different, important viewpoints, shining a light on novel approaches and unlocking our inner ingenuity.

Throughout this issue, our community at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine provides excellent examples of how “moving sideways” can be a positive, enriching experience. It is my hope that, through these pages, we may all gain new perspectives that help us travel through the currents of our lives.