The Porch

This book is an allegory for today's young dentist, a fable imparting wisdom to inspire fortitude, purpose, and actions that lead to career satisfaction and a life well lived. The theme is a Hero's Journey and the mentoring relationship between a young protagonist (Tom) and an older, wiser mentor (Henry). The young dentist goes from despair and feelings of emotional, physical and spiritual burnout to envisioning a hopeful, prosperous future -- through building his belief in himself and seeing a clear path. On Tom's journey, he learns new ways to view his world from Henry who is a dental philosopher. Tom is motivated to try define what he really wants out of life, view new approaches, practice new positive attitudes, and commit to a higher purpose. On his journey, he masters behavioral skills that fuel a passion for his work and lasting happiness in his life. Ultimately, Tom gives back to other young dentists, by guiding them like his mentor Henry guided him. Many of the lessons Tom learns and implements in his life are based on the perennial philosophy of the Stoics and today's field of Positive Psychology.