My Profession

The word, profession, has its roots in the Latin, profiteri, to declare openly. With this collection of my poems, I avow that I believe poetry to be a heart-to-heart connection that is universal. Having a profession also can reference an occupation that requires some higher level of training. Although some poets acquire such, it is not essential. It so happens that my first profession did require graduate level education as a Doctor of Education who worked along side Doctors of Medicine to strengthen the education mission of medical schools ... the two other legs of the stool ¿ medical research and clinical service ¿ were outside my training and purview. (I Have Good News) The metaphorical connection between the transformation of chickpeas without suffering and the separation of spirit from the body is thought-provoking. It raises questions about the nature of suffering and whether it is necessary or inherent in certain processes. This reflection invites contemplation on the deeper meaning of life, death, and the human experience. The mention of the yellow ware bowl that was bartered for in an estate sale adds a personal touch and hints at the significance of memories and shared experiences with wife. The final line, "my wife's cancer journey," brings a somber and emotional aspect to the piece. It suggests that this reflection is part of contemplation on wife's experience with cancer, which adds depth and personal significance to the overall narrative. Overall, words evoke a sense of introspection, the exploration of life's complexities, and the juxtaposition of mundane activities with profound themes.