Everyone who knows me, also knows how much I loved being a Chiropractic Assistant for a few years. I made some special friends during this time and also had some memorable patients. The following I wrote one evening after a day at the practice. I found it today in a bunch of papers…as usual!!!
The Challenge
His sternness precedes him into
the doctor’s reception room..
his second visit still withdrawn
within the circle of aloofness
like the first.
“How are you today” I ask
hoping to crack the shield ..
“Oh, my wife she come here and she
say he will help you..I dunno” and
his one good eye fixes upon my face as the
second circle of pure white gazes
into an unknown world.
“I born in Quebec, you know, but I American
my fadder born in Ver-mont you know..long
time ago. I was a medic in the Big War. It was
awful , and when I worked with the Section
eight I have the nightmares, you know”
the swinging of his arms punctuate sentences
as if to make sure I listen.
“Eighty five years, you know? Why bother to come
here. I die like my brothers and sisters..you know. Four
brothers fought in the Big War, too. They dead now.
Thirteen kids we have, you know?”
He frowns, silent in reflection, as I seat him in the room.
I hang the x-rays and the one eye follows my every
move. “I din’t mind being a medic, you know. I glad
I could.”
I point to the x-rays, alive with light, look at him
and smile “Ok, Emile, which one do you want
for your Christmas Card..”
The man tips his head back with laughter
“You ok, young lady, you ok. I like you.”
Pat on the shoulder..”Doc will be right in”
He holds my hand and whispers “I thank you..”
…my day’s reward.
Thanks for sharing a memory.