Oncology Nurse

Every touch is a devotion,

every soft phrase a prayer

to life, to continue living.

–

A nightingale, a dove

gowned in heavenly blue

a ministering survival chant.

–

Thank you

and double checks

are abundant.

–

They minister

consistent kindness

for they live

among the blasted.

–

There is no sniping,

no rivalries,

just respect and support.

–

They are special.

They are there by choice.

They work double shifts

or come in on short staff days.

–

The cancer center has regular hours

No Nights. No weekends.

Burn out it is low. Effort is high.

–

Their patients are a pretty grateful lot,

so their compassion comes easily

from the first tuck to the last.

–

The nurse knows

some will sleep

and some will awake.

–

Everyone dies,

but today they

will be spared,

–

for tomorrow

is nearly far off

in the rising sun light.