The Ward

Rolling my trembling tray down the colorless, hospital hall I groan in a state of weariness, with a night shift shuffle, as I attempt to bring an offering of pills and syringes to suffering souls. Under the blinding, artificial light, amidst pungent smells and antiseptic dreams, I see an elderly gentlemen struggling swaying, as he tries to push his shaky IV pole down the hall. I come and carefully guide him into his uncomfortable bed then gently administer a token of respite from his restless pain. His frail frame relaxes as his tired eyes offer a whisper of thanks. And in a moment, the balm of human touch and kindness carries away all ills, while silent prayers are answered. Written on 5/2/2017