Christine nods, and her face lights up, pleased at that recognition, in the similarity of their thinking. "That's it exactly, yes. There's a... I don't know. A real beauty, and dignity, in something that's been to hell and back and not been bowed by the experience. In coming back stronger."

It's something she's always appreciated. Maybe it's been part of the reason she was drawn first to Dr. McCoy all the way back at the Academy, when making friends. Part of the reason she admires Captain Kirk. Part of the reason she loves serving on the Enterprise. They've all been beaten down by life at some point, but always come clawing their way back, improved by the experience, looking forward and carrying on rather than dwelling and being bitter.

She leans against the rail, smiling. "It probably helps that we don't seem to be in any immediate danger. I'm rattled but if I let every little thing rattle me I'd never have calm patients. I'm sure I won't impress you as much when there's really something going down."

Hopefully that day won't come.