Persian Shield
Be, student, like that industrious plant
Which first comes up from the soil
Whether timidly, it still clings to the loose dirt
Or, it bursts forth at once, strong and triumphant,
Both must leave the confines of its dark shelter
Now let it turn its face towards the sun
And take within it the warmth and the light
That allow it to stand tall, and taller yet
Straining towards some new loftiness
Spreading leaves to receive what it can
Sending traveling roots out for water
Plunging into greater depths for it or
Reaching farther on a lengthier scale
It siphons nutrients for its uses
Sipping sometimes, hastily gulping, others
With waxy coat, it avoids attack
But soon restores itself when injured
And generates its beauty again
Admired, revered, it stiffens, proud
Yielding not to any force but gentleness
Now be, teacher, as that same grown plant
Which sends its runners out, far and firm
And clasps its now progeny close
Through it they receive their first nourishment
And it proudly watches as they soon stand alone
Jean Liew MD MS is a rheumatologist and clinical researcher at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center