Three breaths for each patient
Closed door.
Close eyes.
Breath one, my patient is here.
She has waited for this visit,
anticipating my help.
This moment means much to her
and her loved ones.
Breath two, I am here.
This moment is for this patient.
The busy day is outside this room.
There is much to learn and share.
Breath three, I am open.
Open senses, to gather all clues.
Open mind, for what fits
and what doesn’t.
Open heart, to ease suffering
and encourage wellness.
Open eyes.
Open door.
“Good morning, ….”
Steve Lieberman is a member of the faculty and administration of the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix. He has devoted his professional efforts over twenty-five years to improving medical student education. He loves teaching.