The Less The Better

 I try to avoid doctors and dentists as much as I can.  Having someone poke around my body or drill through my teeth is not something I consider pleasant nor desirable.  Here's a clear scenario where less is more: the less I see them, the better.

Nevertheless, now that I have work benefits (thank you Lord!!!), it's time to have some of this work done.  So...

...last week I went to the dentist; had a teeth cleaning (all ok, no cavs), my first one in 2 years or so.  Found a good dentist, I think, based on my church deacon's recommendation.  One of my fillings is deteriorating, so I need to come back in 2 weeks' time to have it re-done.  Pricetag so far: $400.  Add another $300 in 3 weeks' time.  Again, thank God for work benefits!

Today I went to the doctor.  My first doctor appointment in years.  I'm considering having the growth on my cheek removed.  It's not cancerous, but it is growing, and increasingly noticeable, so I hope to deal with it.  I will see a specialist in 3 weeks' time.  With any luck I will have it surgically removed before my trip to Mexico in mid-February.  I will also have a physical examination done within the next month.

I've been in search for a family physician for a long time, and as long as I stay in the Jaw, he will probably remain my doctor.  He's from Egypt, and to my delight, he is a Coptic Christian!  What fun conversation possibilities!!!!

He had a plaque on his wall, with the following prayer.  It's called the Physician's Prayer:

Lord, Who on earth didst minister

to those who helpless lay

In pain and weakness, hear me now

As unto Thee I pray.

Give to mine eyes the power to see

The hidden source of ill,

Give to my hand the healing touch

The throb of pain to still.

Grant that mine ears be swift to hear

The cry of those in pain;

Give to my tongue the words that bring

Comfort and strength again.

Fill Thou my heart with tenderness

My brain with wisdom true,

And when in weariness I sink,

Strengthen Thou me anew.

So in Thy footsteps may I tread,

Strong in Thy strength alway,

So may I do Thy blessed work

And praise Thee day by day.