281 - After Diagnosis

September 18, 2002

Sometimes I think that my husband Reid and I have complimentary callings. I am a psalmist, trying to write words of healing and comfort; a physician, Reid has an extraordinary ability to explain medical findings. By doing so, he creates his own words of consolation and empowerment. He is a nuclear radiologist and so is in a separate space from his primary care colleagues. No matter their skill, he helps make their words comprehensible. Unfortunately, the people he speaks with are almost always family and friends. When he is given permission to share their news, I get to work.

Two Hundred Eighty-One

After Diagnosis

The words are spoken neutrally. In my first shock,
I call You: "God, O God!", too soon to bargain.
Hear my primal cry, as a Parent calming night terrors,
For now, that is my singular need.

Then explore with me, my Teacher, this diagnosis.
Help me to ask and understand, to participate;
Gird me with knowledge, commodity of strength,
Make me aware of options and decisions.

In the days ahead, be my Companion,
Sit at my bedside, in examinations, in therapy;
Comfort me with ancient songs of healing,
Allow me the ready acceptance of compassion.

Make time my comfort, not my enemy,
For You keep eternal time;
Be my Source of wholeness, a true healing,
Surround me with gentleness and peace.

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