dr. T.

I sit on the edge of the stretched leather

legs dangling inside my rain boats

and I wait.

there is always a wait. 

but I don't mind. 

a few minutes to myself,

a chance to think.

and then a series of 

staccato knocks

a pause;

and in he walks.

He is tall,

lean shoulders,

they fill his white coat,

his eyes reach mine from above

the rims slouched on his nose.

He is kind. always.

professional. always.

he looks me in the eye. 

takes his time 

and gives me his undivided attention. 

I am always on alert,

and not always at ease when dealing 

with grown up males. 

[particularly male doctors].

i haven't had the best experience with them in the past,

[in fact, pretty horrible]  

left me with a bit of 

fear and trembling 

in having to deal with them in the future. 

But this doctor, 

in his soft and mild manner,

in the way he has to invade my personal space, 

touching my skin and having access

to places only my husband goes, 

all without the roughness or pushiness

i have received in the past, 

I am slowly, slowly, put at ease,

and I have learned to trust this good man.

He means me no harm.

His motives are for 

me as a valued patient, 

and the growing baby inside my womb. 

that's it. 

He has made that very clear.

In the most thoughtful of ways. 

I am appreciative to have this area of my life

redeemed.

So thank you, Dr. T, 

for blessing me,                                       unbeknownst to you,

with your brief, 

but more than aware interactions,

your light hearted nature, 

and the uncanny ability

to make light of 

having to roam over me

with your bare hands

all while sharing in pleasant conversation.

You offer your arm to assist me to 

the upright position. 

You thank me for my time, 

give me a little smile, 

and say "good to see you, partner"

and you leave as swiftly as you entered. 

I gather my things

and head out shortly after.