I have heard the cries
Of a newborn thrust into cold bright light.
I have seen the pale face
Of a beautiful young woman,
Her brains leaking onto the table
Through the skull she shattered with a .22.
I have heard doctors curse in frustration,
Nurses cry with sympathy,
Forced laughter from frightened relatives.
I have seen a child on the brink restored to life,
And the worn heart of an old man
Rejuvenated.
I have heard passionate prayers
Whispered by atheists
And groans of faithless despair
From religious zealots.
I have sat death-watch with families,
Waiting for the doctor to enter the room
With solemn words and tired eyes.
I have seen a frantic father
Pleading for help
For his feverish son
While harried interns
Performed triage
And made decisions they will question
When they are sleepless in bed at home.

© 2009 Peter C. Marcantel