and research, and the highest praise we can give him is to say that he lived up to and fulfilled the ideals with which he set out, and which he expressed when he said, 'Truth, like beauty, is "when unadorned is adorned the most," and in prosecuting these experiments and inquiries, I believe I have been guided by its light!'"
Many of you may enjoy reading the entire manuscript.
(Slide)
Aequanimitas
Aequanimitas is a favorite graduation address, which Osler gave at his parting from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He had such great appreciation for the word that when he was created a Baronet in 1911, he used it on his crest. Many members of the American Osler Society now wear ties with this crest, while others continue to use the old tie from Johns Hopkins, which has only the word Aequanimitas. Does this word still bring to us the coolness and tranquility that Osler offered? From this text I shall now share with you how the word Aequanirnitas came to be in the manner only Osler could use, "...I could have the heart to spare you, poor care-worn survivors of a hard struggle, so lean and pale and leadeneyed; and my tender mercy constrains me to consider by two of the score of elements which may make or mar your lives--which may contribute to your success, or help you in the days of failure."
Osler went on to describe imperturbability: "In the first place, in the physician or surgeon, no quality takes rank with imperturbability, and I propose for a few minutes to direct your attention to this essential bodily virtue...Imperturbability means coolness and presence of mind under all circumstances, calmness amid storm, clearness of judgement in moments of grave peril, immobility, impassiveness or, to use an old and expressive word, phlegm. It is the quality which is most appreciated by the laity, though often
