The Staff of Asclepius

How can I stand near and look you in the face,
And say flat out, beholden me, I am your saving grace.
I am just a soul, that’s studied very well,
Certainly I’m not a god, and snake oil I don’t sell.

You have come to me, ailing, hurt, and worn,
I can only do for you to that which I am born.
I use my hands and mind, to find out what’s amiss,
I do not have a magic pill, nor enchanted kiss.

Objectivity, is what is needed most,
But humans are as humans be, they want a gracious host.
I know that you have pain, it’s very clear to see,
But if I share hurt too much I can’t find a remedy.

I’ll do my best to smile, and comfort your duress,
For this is truly one of my profession’s hardest tests;
To have the gift to heal, as many as I can,
To think apart, from the heart, while holding ailing hands.

But I am not alone in this lifelong quest,
Blessed we are with nurses who will also do their best.
Together all the staff of healing, side by side,
Dedicate our lives to your good health with all our pride.


by Rodney Alan Crater
Copyright ©2007 Rodney Alan Crater