In light of Holy Week, it is fitting to reflect on redemption.

Today I reflect on fellowship. My family and I will be moving in May. As we approach the transition, I am appreciative for community. Aside from my husband, my church family has been my most constant influence during our three-year chapter in Illinois.

Recently I have been aware of the role of truth telling in patient care. The truth heals, but it is uncomfortable, which is why we go to great lengths to avoid it.

The training of doctors is centered on learning how to meet patient needs. This looks different in each case. For some, emergency care is needed. For others, it is pain management or disease control. Still for others, it is guidance and encouragement to make lifestyle changes.

In times of distress, this concept is good medicine. For daily strife, I medicate with poetry. I enjoy the ornamental prose of doting adoration. Old language may be considered primitive, but it’s the best remedy I’ve found to endure the routine burden of life.

According to Jewish tradition, King Solomon wrote the book of Ecclesiastes. Together with Job, Psalms, Proverbs and Song of Songs, it comprises the books of wisdom, a collection of poetry that explores the human condition.

As physicians who primarily treat pain, our curriculum is, in a way, dedicated to eliminating this undesirable state for our patients. We rarely, however, take time to consider the roots of pain itself. 

This simple metaphor captures a complex concept. In a handful of words, Hafez illustrates a helpful psychological principle that also comprises the theological core of the world’s largest religion – that of relationship based on mutual delight, adoration and love.