Lifelines

It’s times like these, 
with the certainty of our assumptions, no longer certain,
that bring a richer appreciation for the touchstones and the lifelines, 
for the heartfelt friends and the fond rituals that carry us through each day,
for the ones who remind us our roots hold braided branches
strong enough to bear roses, 
and of all the reasons, like the simple scent of a rose,
that make a precious life worth living.

Carol Thrush, Ed.D., is a professor in the Department of Surgery.