A few weeks ago, I was fortunate to attend a guest lecture given by the world-renowned physician and anthropologist Paul Farmer, someone who has improved the lives of multitudes in underdeveloped regions through clinical, academic, advocacy and charitable activities.

Hearing from someone who is changing the lives of those with whom they live and work is inspiring. Many of the questions and comments from the audience after the lecture made it abundantly clear that he has numerous admirers.

Having written of the allure of making a difference in my first journal entry, the lecture led me to ponder the nature of the difference I hope to make. Is the abstract awareness that I've contributed to the sum total of human knowledge going to be enough? Or is there something about improving the lot of a fellow human being directly — through medicine, counselling or other activities of the 'helping professions' — that promises an unmatched level of satisfaction?

Scientific knowledge and understanding help us to help others. Indeed, Farmer urged us to continue the research that has underscored so many of the improvements in public health seen around the world. However, the absence of a human face can disconnect us from the reality of those who endure the diseases we study. Awakening to this reality may well change our lives.