Amidst our polarized political landscape, finding common ground is more crucial than ever. It turns out that many Americans hold faith close to their hearts—according to a recent Gallup survey, around 75% identify with a particular religion, mostly Christianity, and almost half say their faith is very important to them. This shared belief could potentially unite us.
When we hear stories of miraculous survival, like NFL player Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest on the field in 2023 or Congressman Steve Scalise’s recovery after being shot in 2017, our thoughts typically don’t wander to their political affiliations.
In my book “Our Miracle,” I recount Rep. Scalise’s experience. The medical team that transferred 50 units of blood and performed life-saving procedures described it as the most miraculous event of their careers. They even attribute part of his recovery to his gratitude towards God.
Rep. Scalise shared with me, “I never felt fear. Once I put my life in God’s hands, an incredible calm and peace came over me. My fate felt in God’s control. I sensed His presence throughout my recovery.”
Many individuals I’ve interviewed for my book express a sense of peace knowing their lives rest in God’s hands after experiencing a miracle.
Dr. Robert Montgomery, a notable surgeon, faced seven cardiac arrests before receiving a heart transplant. He recalls feeling connected to something vast and greater than himself during those moments, describing a calmness that enveloped him. It’s an experience that deepened his understanding of life and improved his practice as a physician.
Interestingly, research by Northwestern University neurophysiologist Jordan Grafman indicates that belief in miracles activates similar brain networks as political beliefs do. This implies that spirituality and politics may fulfill similar emotional needs, perhaps allowing one to substitute for the other.
I genuinely feel that separating church and state may not benefit patient care or society as a whole. Shouldn’t religious doctors be allowed to express their faith, much like the physicians who treated Rep. Scalise?
When we acknowledge a higher power, it could help diminish fears and hostilities. The sentiment of “Fear God, not your fellow man,” resonates throughout Scalise’s and Montgomery’s stories and serves as a reminder against the political animosity we often see.
Reflecting on my 102-year-old father, who has overcome significant health challenges due to the love for his own mother, I’ve noticed how his resilience and perspective have shaped his life. He once shared, “When someone throws a punch, I duck.” It’s those small bits of wisdom that serve as a guide.
Ultimately, doctors must recognize that their patients are not just bodies needing fix-up jobs; they have souls that need caring, too. This understanding, I believe, is pivotal for good medical practice, reminding us that there’s always a possibility for one more miracle.
Believing in miracles could pave the way for greater mutual respect, perhaps helping us bridge the divides of political affiliation in the face of today’s challenges.
