How many times do I have to say goodbye?
BU Med School had a memorial service for the families of those whose family members had donated their bodies for use by the medical students -- those that were used this year. I almost attended but then decided not to. They sent a packet of material from the service after the fact that I got today.
Tonight I was reduced to tears by this poem:
Precious skin
Paused before you
May I approach you?
Silent permission, silent gratitude
Gentle strokes of scalpels
Peel away your story
Layer by layer
Looking in wonder
Awaiting days to discover
Another part of you
Encouraged by your presence
Peaceful strength held in your bones
My gloved and grateful hand on your shoulder
Immersed for hours
Staring at a generous heart
Still, Giving
Pathways to trace by fingertip
Chamber doors to open
Sharing your tender secrets
Unfolding inspiration
~ Heather DeHaan