This tumor in my chest
Reminder of my death
Lives near heart and lungs
And pumping blood and respiration
Now reduced by chemo-radiation
It’s just a mild sensation
But in time with inflation
Will cut off circulation
And end oxygenation
Resulting in the transformation
Mystical reverse incarnation
Defying explanation
Fulfilling ancient revelation
Without death there’s no heroics
No sacrificial acts of lovingkindness
No necessity or obligation
For human acts of re-creation
To live is Christ to die is gain
So for now in this domain
By choice or fate, I will remain
And write at least one more refrain
Such powerful words from a gentleman so full of visions of his future! I was overwhelmed after reading your post. Puts perspective in all our lives. God bless you and praying for your continued healing 🙏🏻💗.
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Dr. Hirsh, I just read your Ode to Death, and it occurs to me that it must be more difficult to have a disease, when you are the one who is seen as an expert in that particular area. Clinically, you might be following the particular progression of this tumor…..but my husband spent four years with Stage 4 lung cancer and most of the things that the doctors/experts told us about what might happen next…..did NOT. Also of all the things I read about his condition, many did not happen as predicted. Instead, we had a wonderful four years, with God’s mercy and protection from many of the horrors that one might expect. You will likely experience His grace and mercy, along the way, and will be very aware that it is indeed HIS hand…..and you will continue to be the inspiration that you already are to your friends and patients. He is still on His throne and surely has many blessings yet to bestow on you and your family. None of us know our future, but keep on one step at a time.
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Keeping you in prayer, along with so many others who are going down the same path.
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At least one more refrain, it’ll keep you sane!! J
_____
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As long as the Lord gives you breath, keep writing.
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Marc i knew you were a great prose writer but now you have been touched by the poetry muse or perhaps the calling of the troubadour Mr DylanThanks for the wisdomMargie
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Love it, and you!
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