Listener

I lean over your belly,
Large with pregnancy,
Stethoscope to forehead.
In this quiet interlude
I process what I will say.

The silent Doppler would be too
Overt and transparent.
I see your tears.
There is no blame here.
I need time, so I listen.

Your heart already knows
The child who no longer moves
Is dead.
I require a moment to prepare for
When the evidence is undeniable.

Jo Ann Benda, MD, is a retired physician who trained in both obstetrics and gynecology, and anatomic pathology. During her career she was author on more than 50 scientific publications. Since retiring, Dr. Benda has become interested in the use of creative writing to discuss medical issues from a different perspective. She belongs to the University Women’s Writers, has attended multiple Examined Life Conferences, and has had several poems published.