It is well for every individual and organization to pause occasionally and take a retrospective view of the work; well for us to stop and reflect in our mad rush for fame and fortune.

It seems to be one of the failings of the American people in this strenuous age to rush madly on in the flight from the cradle to the grave; never stopping to pause or reflect in our course, whether we are accomplishing the highest aims or ideals, or whether we are making the progress and advancement we should. What is true of individuals, is equally true of organizations.

It therefore seemed to me not inappropriate at this particular time the close of the third year of organization under the new regime to look backward and examine ourselves, and see if we have accomplished the desired end. In this brief paper I have divided the subject into, "What he have done," "What we have not done," and "What we hope to do."

Knowing and realizing my incompetency, I have elected to do this unpleasant duty myself, more as a sense of duty and obligation, than otherwise. While I say unpleasant, it has at the same time some few pleasant recollections. We Americans have an unphilosophical way of always looking toward our successes, rather than toward our failures. Some sage has said that "Failure is the first stepping stone to success." The weak and foolish are always buoyed up and flattered by the flush of even apparent success. But the calm unruffled man of science goes straight on *Read before the Highland County Medical Society October 4,

1905.

to his goal, never faltering or wavering nor looking to the right or left. His only aim being accomplishment-permanent suc

cess.

Of late there has been much said pro and con relative to the workings of county societies. For years they have been the integral part of the medical organization. In fact they antedate all other society organizations in this country. As medical knowledge and education grew and enlarged, and greater and more important organizations were formed to meet the requirements of the times, the county societies were sort of lost sight of in the shadow of these greater organizations.

While this was of benefit to the few, it was not to the mass of medical men, engaged in active practice. Organizations of this kind tend to foster an aristocratic rather than a democratic spirit, which is not in keeping with our free institutions of America.

In 1901 and 1902, an effort was put forth by the great American Medical Association, to organize the separate county societies into component societies, making each one a part of the state organization. Each state organization, forming a fractional part of the American Medical Association, making a harmonious whole; each separate, each distinct, with its varied functions, yet all forming an ideal organization.

While some of the larger county societies in the larger towns and cities were already thoroughly organized and in excellent working order, it was ever apparent that there was much to be done in the way of education of the members and profession in these component societies. It is not all to have an election of officers and an occasional meeting where scientific papers are read, in name only; the practice of medicine is not a trade like that of a carpenter, plumber, or tailor. It means more. I do not believe in unions and in class organization, like we see too much of already in our labor organizations throughout the country.

These institutions while all right in their way, are sometimes as much a detriment to free institutions, as is oppression by capital. As you know, the state is divided into ten districts, each consisting of a certain number of county or compo

nent societies which are more or less thoroughly organized. Each is presided over by a counselor whose business it is to see that the work is going on in the county societies. That this work has been well done, goes without saying. Every county in our first district is organized and doing good work. There are only one or two districts but what have every county in its respective district organized in some way, even though only in name. A thoroughgoing State Journal represents the profession in Ohio, and belongs to the county societies.

The work being done by the various county societies of course varies. Some counties are doing splendid work, have enthusiastic meetings, and the proper spirit of progress. They are promoting good fellowship never before felt in the community. They are beginning to realize that we all have a common interest. The selfishness and ill feeling is disappearing.

The influence of the organization is felt in the community. The people speak of the medical society with respect and not contempt. It has force and influence. It has just power to do or undo.

Now, I wish to be pardoned for being a little personal, and if I am in any way to blame, spare not, but speak the truth. I have tried to do my duty. Has Highland County Medical Society done what it should? No. Have we had the enrollment we should have? No. Have we had the attendance we should have? No. Have we had the interest and enthusiasm? No. Have the individual members done their duty? No. Have the officers done what they night have d ne? No Iias the Secretary done his duty? No. What are we, anyhow? A few doctors who meet every three months, if we have nothing else to do or no other place to go. Our programs have been good and instructive. Something new could be picked up at each meeting, but often the choicest morsals were left untouched.

You, perhaps, belong to some other society-some State or National organization-and think it doesn't matter; but that is not true. What have you done for that society or it for you? More than likely you don't belong to any society. You think what's the use? Why, you say, that bunch that is trying to run the Highland County Society, hasn't sense enough to lead a billy