There are undeniable treasures that have created chiropractic’s heritage. Firstly, there are the people that stood tall and firm for the cause in the very beginning of chiropractic history- D.D. Palmer, founder; Dr. B.J. Palmer, developer; and Dr. Mable Palmer, the “sweetheart” of the students during her tenure at Palmer College.
Other treasures include the early doctors taught by B.J. that chose to spend time in jail rather than to stop practicing their art actually propelled chiropractic into reality by sheer dedication.
Sherman Colleges’ heritage include treasures the likes of Dr. Lyle Sherman, Drs. Thom and Betty Gelardi, Drs. Reggie and Irene Gold, and many others currently working on behalf of the college as members of the Boards of Trustees, the Board of Regents and as professors.
There are the “33 Principles” of Chiropractic,” the “Green Books” of B.J. Palmer which discuss his philosophy, the science he investigated, the art he developed as well as fascinating stories capturing the mood and politics of the early to mid 20th Century. There is the “Little Bit of Heaven” that B.J. created in his time of inner turmoil and contemplation. These are all treasures.
The many chiropractic techniques that have been developed and researched over the years are treasures to humanity. Without them, so many would continue to suffer ill health and pain.
Yet tonight, I contemplate something far more valuable than any of the above. On my mind tonight is the treasure that I hold when I prepare to adjust. I hold in my hands a life. I hold in my hands a human being. Here before me is someone’s mother, father, sister, brother, child. Someone’s precious, precious child! And here I stand, at his moment entrusted with this life.
It has taken me time (one of the principles) to come to this juncture in my life. Many things learned as I walked towards my life in chiropractic. Most important in my development as a healer was when I held each of my children after their birth. I was then aware of the preciousness of life. And now, true to life’s purpose, as I hold these individual lives in my hands I appreciate and value the undeniable treasures that they are. Without these undeniable treasures, there would be no purpose in chiropractic.
