Spring Stirrings
February 15, 2012
I continue to be convinced that I am a doctor because I have much to learn.
Fortunately, my patients bring their wisdom, daily, to my door. I need only open that door and be willing to hear their stories in order to be enriched by the wealth of experience and true courage I see in their lives.
Today I sat with a patient who has arthritis in many of her joints. Her history was complicated by many medical problems, including one requiring brain surgery.
I had successfully treated my patient's arthritis pain with acupuncture in the past, in collaboration with several other highly qualified health care providers of other specialties. My patient has, herself, taken an active role in her healing, through exercise, lifestyle and dietary changes.
I hadn't seen her for many months. This is a common occurrence with those who have been made well.
Upon her return to our office a few weeks ago, my patient admitted to being greatly discouraged by the limitation of her activities which had occurred due to a recent increase in pain.
Things looked very bleak indeed. She felt ensnared by the darkness of the Winter months.
Now several visits later, she is experiencing relief once again. Her outlook has taken a 180 degree turn.
No longer trapped by her body, she is able to once more connect with that which brings her joy.
She told me that she is often inspired by nature, and specifically by crocuses that come up in the Spring.
She loves the idea that the energy of the life force, even in its dormancy, is ever present.
She told me of the 48 dahlias she has stored in her basement, which though seemingly dead, will soon begin to exhibit growth. They are merely waiting for the right messages from the spring season.
Just as we, if we are paying attention, might experience the messages of growth and renewal sent forth from the earth.
I was, as I often am, humbled by the gentle wisdom of my patient.
My patient was my very own message of hope; my very own harbinger of Spring.
I am a doctor because I have much to learn.
I am blessed by those who appear at my door, willing to teach.
blurred brilliance
February 2012
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Dr. Lisa's Bountiful Blog is read weekly on the Dr. Lisa Radio Hour. Show summaries are available on the Dr. Lisa website. Subscribe to podcasts of the show through iTunes and let us know what you think!
