A while ago, I did a small 'series' on Power. Within images I had on hand before me at the time, I saw that I could find a theme to express the various forms where I could see power was a central presence. The other day, through a thoughtful gift, I thought of another form of power that I had not considered into that grouping, that also ties in to my recent post, Vanishing Love.
As I imagine with many people, I have some health struggles that I deal with and in an inadvertent switch of appointments a few years ago, the doctor I saw on a visit was other than 'my' regular one. This new doctor, was someone who immediately took an interest not only in my heath care, but in me as a person. I identified with him and under his care, I felt confident with the decisions he was making. From that day on, I continued to see him only as my 'primary' health provider and I felt valued. On one visit, while in his office, this sculpture caught my eye on his bookshelf and I asked about it. He said he had always liked it and had picked it up on a trip to Africa in the 1950s. He said he kept it at work to remind him to 'think' and 'feel' when dealing with his patients in finding what their needs were... not only of the present physical symptoms.
I too liked it and even took some photos of it on another visit. Several months ago, I was saddened to know he was retiring but was glad to find in his place, a new Physician who I believe has taken up his role with the same care and concern outside of them-self that he did with me.
While in for a 'check up' the other day, I was delighted to find that when he departed, I was his very last patient and futher more, that he had left a gift behind for me.... his sculpture.
A small piece of himself as a token of his care and friendship for me. I felt blessed and honored. It makes a connection for me with another piece I myself obtained while in a small, back alley Singapore shop years ago that someday I will show below. Some have told me in this piece they see anguish, others introspection, but I think of it as deep prayer.
In this small way, the power he shared of time, kindness and connection was passed on and preserved with me. My mother told me shortly before she passed that time was the only thing that you truly give to another. Something you didn't earn, nor could ever get back. I wish for time with her again, but it will never be and I am thankful to those who still give me theirs. I too am grateful that through my doctors thought-fulness to me in this little piece of crafted wood from a world and time away, his care will remain with me. I think, like the connection of giving care that I was able to share with my homeless friends in Love Park on those Tuesday nights away from my family, he left something behind of himself to lighten my life. A little connection to humanity with power behind it. Something so important, for there is little of that in life anymore. I am humbled.
