The Universe’s Conspiracy: My Award-Winning Experience
Have you ever had one of those moments when everything aligns perfectly, almost as if the universe is conspiring in your favor? Well, last week, I experienced something just like that. It felt as if the universe was whispering in my ear, guiding me without my even realizing it.
Last Wednesday, I traveled with some colleagues to Georgetown, Texas, for a three-day conference for continuing education professionals in our state. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn, connect, and share our experiences.
As with most multi-day conferences, day one was shorter, perfect for networking over a late lunch and dinner. We met so many amazing people, shared ideas, and reconnected with old friends. It was a great start to what promised to be an eventful event.
Day two was the main day, full of sessions. I woke up early, showered, and got ready for the day. Breakfast was provided at the conference, so I grabbed my coffee and mentally prepared myself for the long day ahead. The day started with announcements, including the Outstanding Achievement in Continuing Medical Education (CME) Award. As the host was preparing to announce the award winner's name, she said the following:
"Each year, TACME recognizes and applauds a member with the TACME Outstanding Achievement Award. This award acknowledges individual TACME members for their contributions to continuing medical education and the CME community as demonstrated by their collegial spirit, exemplary performance, commitment to excellence, generosity, and dedication to the profession."
Right then, I had a fleeting thought: "What if they announced my name?"
And guess what? They did!
Not in my wildest dreams had I imagined this. I was completely taken aback and couldn't believe it. I was so confused trying to process what had just happened. My emotional brain took over, and my rational brain was nowhere to be found. One of my mentors, who apparently knew I was getting the award, was standing close by. I heard him say, "Sujita, go to the stage." And then I walked towards the stage.
As I stood in front of a room full of CE professionals, both new and veteran, and listened to the host read my nomination, I was filled with pride and happiness. Most of the time, we don’t even think about how our actions impact others, but standing there and hearing what my nominator had to say about me filled my heart. It felt amazing to hear a thoughtfully put-together nomination about me.
I also found out that one of my co-workers had nominated me for the award. The Board of Directors of Texas Alliance for Continuing Medical Education (TACME) had then chosen me as the winner!
The surprise didn't end there. My co-worker, who had nominated me, had secretly recorded the moment the host announced my name. Watching the video, I could see the genuine surprise and joy on my face—priceless!
Reflecting on the events leading up to that moment, it feels almost miraculous how everything fell into place. On the day of the event, it felt like I was prepped for the moment. I had gone shopping the weekend before and found a perfect blazer to complement my outfit. I had no intention of getting a blazer that day, yet somehow it felt like it was made for me, and I couldn't resist. I'm glad I didn't.
I put on my outfit, which was nicely ironed the night before. I remember getting ready to head downstairs, initially planning to wear flats, but right before leaving my room, I felt like wearing heels to elevate my look. I usually prefer comfort over fashion, but that day, I intuitively chose my heels. As I met my coworkers outside the conference hall, they complimented my outfit. Who doesn't like getting complimented, right? Little did I know, everything was aligning perfectly for the moment to come shortly. Later, my co-workers told me, "You walked as if you knew you were going to have a big moment." I didn’t, but the universe definitely guided me to it.
Everything might have been a mere coincidence, but to me, it was the universe guiding each step!
I am grateful to have received this award and even more grateful to my co-worker who thought I was deserving and nominated me. It has brought me so much joy and boosted my confidence.
This experience has also taught me a valuable lesson—sometimes, the universe has plans for us that we can't foresee. It reminded me to trust in the journey, even when I can't see the destination. It has also taught me to keep doing good work and give my best at whatever I do.
So, to all my readers, keep believing in your path and stay open to the surprises life may bring. You never know when the universe might conspire to create a perfect moment just for you. 🌟