Relations

One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a family physician for me is the ability to quietly observe and reflect on people’s interactions with one another. One night while working a late shift at a vaccination clinic, I witnessed a beautiful exchange between a mother and her daughter, as depicted in this poem. The steadfast reliance of these lovely women on each other was wonderful to observe, reminding me of the value of patience, acceptance, and kindness. Working with patients who may not be able to speak English, or who may have disabilities that limit their communication, always encourages me to appreciate the valuable gems of connection that transcend speech or sight.

Mother and daughter

(On a shift at a vaccine clinic)

They walked in

holding each other’s hands.

The mother

led her daughter

who could not see.

The daughter

led her mother

who could not speak.

Two women—

for one another

the language

and

the eyes.

A dyad

of

magnificent allies.

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