A busy busy weekend. On Friday, Kort received his Master's degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine with a specialization in Chinese herbal and Japanese acupuncture. Many wonderful commencement speakers - Rich Mandell, an acudetox specialist who also teaches acupuncture thru a special program in Africa which helps teach these techniques to local healthcare workers to alleviate the suffering of AIDS patients. As part of his address, Rich surprised the audience with a fantastic bassoon solo of Bach's cello suites. Dr. Carlyle Miller of the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine read from Frost's "Mending Wall" and talked about the juncture of Western medicine and alternative therapy. The student speaker, Josh Summer gave an irreverent speech, lampooning several faculty members, inspiring the grads in a sing along of a Jackson Browne tune, and closed out with an imitation of Ali G. A good time was had by all.

Here is the Oath for (taken by) Traditional Chinese Medical Practitioners:

When people come to me with a serious disease and ask for help, I will not concern myself with whether they are esteemed or dishonorable, wealthy or poor, elderly or young, beautiful or ugly. My care shall be safe and not swayed by whether they are my dearest family members or my adversaries, my good friends or strangers, foolish or wise.

In my mind's eye each patient is on the same level, degree and class, and shall be treated as close as family. My care shall never be self-serving nor motivated by what brings good or bad fortune nor by that which is pleasing or upsetting. My protection and care shall be preceisely what is necessary; no more no less, without deference to my own safety and life. I will know in my heart that my good deeds are sincere and not a game. I will show courage, but caution. I will actively explore and broaden my knowledge, but stand firmly on the principles of which I am certain.

CONGRATULATIONS, KORT!!!