The author, as the President of the Japanese Society of Gastroenterological Surgery, discusses the process of the foundation of our Society, the number of gastroenterological surgeons required in Japan, the license system for the specialist of gastroenterological surgery, the present status of teaching institutions for the specialist, and the problems and ideals of our Society, particularly in relation to social needs.Finally, J. F. Kennedy's words remind him of the importance of bringing up “another self” and listening carefully to the internal voice of “another self”, who pursues what we should do at any time and in any situation.