**From Survival to Sovereignty: A Journey of Reflection and Transformation**
Kenneth Ro’s piece, “From Survival to Sovereignty,” examines his deeply personal odyssey spanning 35 years as an emergency physician. The story emerges from Kenneth’s difficult childhood as a bullied Korean American in Texas, transitioning to his transformative experience in the emergency department, ultimately leading to a journey of spiritual and personal enlightenment.
**Early Life and Career Choices:**
Kenneth recounts his early encounters as a minority in Texas. These formative moments were characterized by bullying, yet they fostered a strong determination to thrive academically. For him, academic success became a means of “protection” against a world that often felt unforgiving.
A profession in the emergency department appeared to be a fitting choice, given his character and abilities. It was a space where his perfectionist tendencies and results-oriented mindset could thrive. However, this accomplishment came at a cost, including the need to compartmentalize trauma and adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms.
**Professional Challenges and Personal Struggles:**
During his career, Kenneth faced the stark realities of medicine, spanning from the AIDS epidemic to the COVID-19 crisis. The constant confrontation with mortality and human suffering led to a life of separation into fragments. This, combined with addiction, resulted in what he describes as two identities: a lifesaver and a self-defeater.
His journey took a crucial shift when he confronted physical injuries and surgeries, leading to a phase of inactivity and contemplation. It was during this period that Kenneth recognized a significant disconnect between his professional success and personal wellness.
**The Path to Spiritual Awakening and Personal Growth:**
The turning point arose through the reading of Dr. Gundry’s “The Plant Paradox,” which provided insights into the effects of diet on health. This new awareness triggered a series of beneficial transformations in Kenneth’s life, including weight reduction and enhanced energy. It also sparked a deeper inquiry into spirituality and self-kindness.
Kenneth committed to advancing beyond merely “do no harm” to “do more good,” placing a higher value on integrity, self-care, and presence rather than just performance. He concentrated on health optimization and preventive care, reorienting his career to resonate with these principles.
**A Message of Hope and Compassion:**
Kenneth’s narrative serves as a significant reminder of the necessity of confronting unresolved trauma and embracing self-compassion. His experiences highlight the importance of self-reflection, humility, and the bravery to reinvent one’s story.
Through his journey, Kenneth has created the Nova Oath™, transforming the Hippocratic principle to inspire a new wave of healers dedicated to effecting positive change in the world. His message urges individuals to recognize their challenges, seek support, and appreciate the transformative influence of kindness, both towards themselves and others.