Medicine

by

Anna McDonald

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Advil and Tylenol
Iodine and peroxide
Listerine and toothpaste
Medicants all
To fight my body's
      aches and pains
      infections and bruises
      and innumerable germs' intrusions.

A healthy body is my desire
A healthy person I need to be

But more than that
      I need a healthy spirit
      I need that inner peace
      that peace that passes all understanding.

Where do I find this heart's desire?

With the prophet, I cry:
"Is there no balm in Gilead?"
Are there no doctors there?"

Listen, my friend,
      What are you searching for
      It cannot be bought.
      It can only be found within yourself,
      Deep within your soul
      Deep within your relationship with your Creator
      With your God.

You will find the answer to your search
      In the words of repentance and forgiveness,
      In the deeds of kindness and love
      In the touch of a comforting hand.

Act upon them.

The wise man declares:
      "Kind words like honey are sweet to the taste and
            good for your health."
      "Cheerful words are music to the soul."
These words of the Lord will be the answer to your cry.
These words will bring healing to your soul.

Amen. Amen.