236 - Before Radiation Treatments

My father-in-law, Stan, finishes his course of radiation treatments today. I remember the times I completed my treatments; I felt like I should get a medal or a fancy cake. The daily treatments are eerie: lying alone in a lead-lined room, a huge machine looming over. The reward, I guess, comes with the renewed hope that the cancer has been defeated.

Two Hundred Thirty-Six

Before Radiation Treatments

Bring forth the power,
Sun energy harnessed;
You Who created light,
Focus this light for my sake.

Hold me in stillness,
Let beams focus and whir;
Count the minutes with me
As I murmur my prayer.

Enfold me in strength,
Quiet my terror;
Guard me, my Healer,
Console me, my Friend.