This piece is part of in-Training Mental Health Week.
Egg shell coat:
Tread softly,
Quietly.
To not crack the illusion
Of knowledge,
Bold aspirations.
Short coat:
Stand tall,
Noticeable.
To not shrink to its size;
Let it cover the insecurity,
The blank canvas.
Unblemished coat:
Wrap tightly,
Securely.
To not let slip the bandage camouflage
Over contusions from steep climbs,
Sleepless nights.
Thin coat:
Button carefully,
Tenderly.
To not fray the meager threads;
Unravel by barbed words,
Piercing uncertainty.
Heavy coat:
Fill slowly,
Carefully.
To not forget hidden pockets
Of steely resolve,
Silver linings.
My white coat,
Never my jaded coat.
My uniform,
Never my armor.
Contributing Writer
University of Kansas School of Medicine
Class of 2017 medical student at the University of Kansas School of Medicine.