"Streaming"

by Emily Holt, OMS-II

Like wet pain streaking

Down the wall

With color that was too thick

To hold itself up

-I feel myself missing you-

My colors streaming

Down my face,

Pooling in the wrinkles,

(even when I smile)

the colors mix, the hues change.

When they dry, will you recognize me?

[Author’s note: I wrote this in response to a writer’s group prompt to write about “streaming.” My husband doesn’t live in Blacksburg, and I miss him a lot. Sometimes I feel like I’m going through this great transformation while I’m in medical school and he’s not witnessing it or a part of it. I wonder how much I’m really changing and if he notices it when we’re together.]

My Anatomy Donor

by Jennifer Grant, OMS-III

I peer into your temple at the clots of harmed vitality.

Flowing flush

forced midnight,

and the darkness of that evening

filling fast

spaces your spirit once dwelled.

I imagine you alone enduring the

fearful flash

of harrowing pain and heaviness,

before Love releases you

forever, floating free.  

Jen Grant, On Writing

In the midst of perpetual information overload, and with thoughts of nearing exams haunting my free time, it was hard for me to maintain my perspective. At times I couldn’t remember why I had chosen this path. I forgot what a rare privilege it was to serve as a physician, and lead a life of giving. For any of you who can relate, and have a foggy recollection of why you are studying so hard, take a moment and be mindful.

Writing can be a therapeutic tool for physicians and medical students. Sharing our stories is a powerful way to heal our tired minds, and restore our energy and perspective. It also unites us to the one, great story of humanity. I find that any form of writing is beneficial, whether it be writing short prose, a few lines of poetry, venting thoughts in a journal, or even just making a list of ideas.

As we spend our lives working toward helping others heal, it is important that we keep our own minds and souls healthy and open. When we maintain balance, we have more to give without feeling burnt out. I encourage you to get into the habit of taking time for reflection through writing.

Jennifer Grant is a third year student who wrote this reflection in her second year at VCOM.