Gifts
Bound by a wheel chair with multiple painful joints, but expressing joy.  What a a paradox.  (By the way a paradox is two doctors in consultation.)  A couple of weeks ago when I saw this patient he was miserable-Pain in almost every joint, post hip bilateral replacement and unable to move his neck.  Rheumatoid arthritis treatment with limited resources is great challenge.  After prescribing what I thought was reasonable medication he was seen by the physical therapist who encouraged him to keep active. Between visits he busied himself with his prescribe exercises to the point he is now able to stand for a short moment.  Even though his neck in particular has limited movement and most other joints have more movement he now has great joy.  Now the humbling part for me-a gift, a small gift but a gift of a local sweet rice cake.  The very patient I expected to complain bitterly is rejoicing and giving gifts.  How am I to respond?