I have an
otolaryngologist
Who treats my sinusitis.
An orthopedic surgeon who’s
In charge of my bursitis;
A gastroenterologist
Who probes and writes Rxs
Whenever my complaints are lodged
Around my solar pìexus.
A trusted ophthalmologist
who sees to how I'm seeing,
A psychiatric expert for
Emotional well being;
A noted rheumatologist
To manage my arthritis,
And yet another specialist
For warts and dermatitis;
A leading cardiologist
To regulate the heart of me,
A team of radiologists
Who've pictured every part of me.
And yet, with all their wherewithal,
They heal themselves, I’m told,
With aspirin, tea, and chicken soup
Whenever they catch cold.
Author Bio: Elaine Zeichner was born in New York City and is a graduate of Hunter College. While at Hunter, she honed her creative talents writing lyrics for “Sing.” She and her husband lived in Fresh Meadows, Queens, NY where they raised their two children. After 25 years as a NYC schoolteacher, Elaine and her husband relocated to South Florida. She continues to enjoy dabbling in poetry and creative writing.
Ms. Zeichner's poem reminded me of the parable of the blind men and the elephant. Each of her specialists sees only a part of her. Where is the generalist of old?