By Thomas G. Stackhouse, MD

                         April 9, 2020

Deserted path from town to home today
Leads me across the bridge over the brook.
I watch this creek to see if trout display.
This sport requires time and stealth to hook.

And there it is, a dorsal fin at last.
The trout pursues the fly that marks the rise.
It is the clue I seek to start the cast.
To catch this fish, to land this handsome prize.

Yet still my thoughts return to those at work.
To them who gown, who mask, who stand and fight.
These friends deserve the time I have to lurk,
Escape the plague, return to home each night.

For these colleagues who’ve sworn to take the call.
Remain the best of us these warriors all.

Thomas G. Stackhouse, M.D.
Bethlehem, PA
Consultant Independent Medical Examinations NJ