Fulfillment: What We Can Learn from Dr. Vivek Murthy and Merion Mercy Academy

In a closing letter to the nation following his two terms as U.S. Surgeon General, Vivek H. Murthy invited Americans to “rethink how we’re living our lives.” Shared with People magazine, his “parting prescription” for the country he loves offers a blueprint for a life of health, well-being, and fulfillment.

Dr. Murthy’s reflections were shaped by his father’s upbringing in a farming village in rural India. Despite the hardships—no running water or electricity, and a scarcity of food—his father’s life was full, thanks to a strong sense of community. People knew and cared for one another, not just by name but by their stories, their families, and their shared lives. 

This intimate sense of belonging led Dr. Murthy to a central question during his tenure as Surgeon General: “What are the deeper root causes of the pain and unhappiness I encounter so often across our country?” 

His answer, informed by years of listening, researching, and reflecting, points to three essential elements of fulfillment: relationships, service, and purpose.

These three elements are woven into the fabric of a Merion Mercy Academy education, providing students with not only an exceptional academic foundation but also the tools to live deeply meaningful lives.

Relationships: Sisterhood That Lasts a Lifetime

At Merion Mercy, relationships go beyond the classroom. Our sisterhood forms the bedrock of a student’s experience, offering connection, support, and a sense of belonging. From Sisterhood Days to Big Sister/Little Sister pairings and cherished traditions, we cultivate an environment where students feel seen, valued, and supported.

This sense of connection is a powerful antidote to the loneliness that afflicts so many young people today. When students leave Merion Mercy, they take with them lifelong friendships and an unshakeable bond to their community—a reminder that fulfillment is rooted in the relationships we nurture.

Service: Living the Mercy Mission

Dr. Murthy reminds us that serving others is essential for fulfillment, and service is at the heart of Merion Mercy’s mission. Whether participating in Mercy Mission Corps, joining efforts for the Thanksgiving Food Drive, or engaging in the MLK Jr. Day of Service, students learn that service is about compassion and action.

These experiences are not just events but transformative opportunities to connect with something greater than themselves. Whether through a weeklong immersion trip or a simple act of kindness, Merion Mercy students learn the power of serving others to build a more just and loving world.

Purpose: Discovering Direction and Meaning

At Merion Mercy, every girl is encouraged to find her unique purpose. Whether through rigorous academics, extracurricular pursuits, ministry opportunities, or the deeply personal journey of Kairos retreats, students are supported as they explore their passions and develop a sense of direction.

Purpose is not just a buzzword here; it’s a lived experience. Our students leave Merion Mercy with not only knowledge and skills but also clarity about how they want to contribute to the world. They understand that their lives have meaning far beyond their accomplishments or the number of followers on social media.

The Triad of Fulfillment in Action

Fulfillment goes a long way toward positively impacting our physical and mental health, allowing us to connect with something bigger than ourselves. This is a universal human need that brings “perspective and support and helps avoid the excessive rumination and focus on self that often contributes to mental distress.”

Yet, many young people today struggle with loneliness, a lack of engagement in service, and an absence of purpose. Merion Mercy Academy stands as a counterbalance to these challenges, offering students a supportive environment where they can grow into confident, compassionate leaders.

What Truly Matters

As Dr. Murthy cared for patients at the end of their lives, he found that what they cherished most was never their achievements, wealth, or social status. It was always the people they loved, the lives they served, and the difference they made.

At Merion Mercy, we echo this wisdom daily. Our students are equipped not only for success but for significance. They leave our halls ready to live lives filled with meaningful relationships, selfless service, and a deep sense of purpose.

As we rethink how we’re living, let us take inspiration from Dr. Murthy’s words and the Merion Mercy mission. Together, we can build a life—and a world—that values what truly matters.