This special breed of human being,

who spend their working day in care

of people sick in mind or limb

and helps them back to health again.

 

For all their outward starch and poise,

their eyes and hands betray their love.

Both men and women have this gift

that sooths the fears and gives one rest.

 

I love them all. I know not why –

their gentle firmness eases pain.

They work to help us through bad times

and guide us when we go astray.

 

But most of all they radiate a kind

of warmth that shows they care.

To them a beautiful young being

is no more worthy than this shell.

 

So thank you all, from all of us

who come here for so short a time.

Not thinking of the endless hours

That you spend helping others mend.

 

 

David Garlick, Victoria, April, 1986